Interview with Leigh Mendelson

Leigh Mendelson is the head coach of the expansion Marquette Rangers of the NAHL. His vast coaching experience has allowed him to sit behind the bench at several levels including the FNL, USHL, USNTDP, and the ECHL. He has helped produce over 100 NCAA players and 40 NHL draft picks. Leigh was kind enough to give McKeen's Hockey an interview about the top prospects playing in Marquette this season.

McKeen's: Defenseman Jason Cohen has been a productive defenseman for you this season. What does he bring to your team and what's his potential at the next level?

Leigh Mendelson: Jason is a player with a lot of offensive upside. As a converted forward, he has a good skill package, and some offensive intelligence. Jason needs to play defense with more urgency and passion, in order to be considered a prospect at the next level.

McKeen's: Is Cody Ikkala a physical presence for your team?

Leigh Mendelson: Cody is a young defenseman who is just scratching the surface of his physical game. He has a desire to compete and be hard to play against, however he needs to continue to improve his puck moving skills. Overall his game is heading in the right direction.

McKeen's: Has the NHL shown a lot of interest in the Rangers and the NAHL this season in your estimation?

Leigh Mendelson: We have certainly had our fair share of NHL scouts at our games. Most recently, the reason has been to see Jake Hauswirth, an 88' 6-4 forward from Merrill WI. Jake has a lot of upside as a very good skater with a passion to compete, and a good set of hands with good offensive instincts.

McKeen's: Has it been more difficult to recruit players in your time with Marquette than it was in the USHL?

Leigh Mendelson: Well, I believe it depends on who you are recruiting, and where the player really belongs as a player. If he is not going to be a top 9 forward or a top four defenseman in the in the USHL, it is a fight worth getting into. As far as trying to convince players who have the aforementioned opportunities in the USHL, I would prefer to spend my time elsewhere, on an unknown, or a diamond in the rough type of player.