The MOAT: Melbourne Mustangs have a new captain this year. Fan Favourite and 2015 MVP, Patrick O'Kane of New Hampshire, USA, is our captain in 2016. During the week we put some questions to him about his thoughts on Hockey and the Mustangs going forward.
"I first got into hockey when I was 3 or 4," Pat said, "My older brother played, my dad played and my grandfather as well. So it was only a matter of time before my parents put me on the ice. I’m glad they did too."
Being from the Boston area, Pat's a diehard Bruins fan. "I love what Patrice Bergeron has done throughout his career in Boston. He just gets better and better. But I’m always pulling for Sidney Crosby as well," Pat said.
Pat's hard work on and off the ice at the Mustangs over many seasons was recognised at the start of the year with him being named as captain for Season 2016. "Being named captain is an honour," Pat said. "I have become very close with Sean over my years, and have been witness to how he handles leadership amongst the guys. I have been able to learn so much from Sean, both around and away from hockey." Pat speaks glowingly of the rest of the team and his fellow leadership group. "This is just one of the many changes this year, and I am proud to be a part of the leadership group with Sean and Jamie. Throw in guys like Brendy, Fras, Stringer, Jack (just to name a few) and you have a solid group of leaders," Pat said.
Pat was also asked for his thoughts on the multitude of changes that occurred through the Mustangs this year. "The changes this year have certainly been plenty, but I think necessary. We have had a wave of new faces, personalities, motivators and the feeling around the club has been so positive," Pat said. "We have acquired some very skillful players like Ryan and Chris."
He spoke glowingly of the attitude of the boys at training. "Our practices have improved tremendously with guys like Luke and Phil giving 100% all of the time. The juniors are putting in just as much as everyone else, and its encouraging for future Mustangs teams. And it has started from the top, with the coaching staff and their influence," Pat said.
Pat was asked if there was a new face he was prepared to single out who he thought would have an impact in 2016. "I don’t think any single new player will have more impact than another," Pat said, "I think each addition to our club will have a role to play, and will influence how the season goes just as much as the next. I’m glad that each new addition has come onboard."
Our fans speak glowingly of Pat but we asked him if he could describe himself in a few works. His answer was honest and humble. "I would say I am a hard worker. I don’t have nearly the same kind of stats as the imports in this league, and some of the skills the locals have are far beyond mine. But if I can outwork someone, than I will generally do ok," Pat said.
Pat's hockey highlight in Australia is the 2014 Goodall Cup. "That was incredible," Pat said. "No matter what, no one can take that away from those guys that were a part of that." He sometimes gets a bit nostalgic with college, high school and even younger hockey years. "They have all been great," he said.
Given his time with the Mustangs we asked whether he had settled. With news that will please Mustangs fans Pat said, "I have settled here. For me, it is where I want to be for the foreseeable future. I have obviously met (fiancée) Steph and couldn’t be happier. Everyone I’ve met throughout my time has been more than accommodating and I have developed some amazing friendships that I’m not prepared to leave."
Asked for some final words, Pat said "Away from the ice I am pretty set in my routine. Believe it or not, I don’t make too many spontaneous decisions, and I like my days to be pretty consistent. I still play tourist and discover new things around Melbourne, but I never really shut hockey out of my thoughts. Not yet at least."
From all the Mustangs Fans Pat, we hope hockey stays on your mind for a long time!
RHINOS
LIGHTNING
NORTHSTARS
ICE
THUNDER
ADRENALINE
MUSTANGS
BRAVE
