QA With Brian Boyle
Boston College freshman and Los Angeles first-rounder Brian Boyle took the time recently to talk with McKeen’s.
McKeen's: When and where did you start playing hockey?
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Brian Boyle: I starting playing hockey at age three in my hometown of Hingham Massachusetts, at Pilgrim Arena. My father took me out at an early age because I loved to watch hockey and play street hockey and I was hooked instantly.
McKeen's: Is there any particular person who has been influential in your development?
Brian Boyle: My father has been there every step of the way and has taught me so much about the game. He has sacrificed so much to give me every opportunity I could get and he has shown me so much through the years with courage (he battled cancer, and supports 13 children along with my mother). Along with my mother, they have given me everything I could ever ask for with regards to support and such.
McKeen's: Are there any players in the NHL you watch and admire?
Brian Boyle: Joe Thornton is one of the best in the business and playing like him is something I strive for.
McKeen's: What do you love most about playing hockey?
Brian Boyle: Winning games, being out on the rink after practice just playing shinny, scoring. There isn’t much that I don’t like about the game.
McKeen's: What do you consider your biggest success in hockey so far ?
Brian Boyle: Being able to play for BC is a personal success for me. Winning two New England championships is the best memory I have had with a team. Also getting drafted by the LA Kings was a great feeling as well.
McKeen's: How would you describe the experience of being selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2003 NHL Draft?
Brian Boyle: It was an unbelievable feeling that I really can’t put into words. I am thrilled for the opportunity.
McKeen's: Can you describe your strengths and weaknesses?
Brian Boyle: Playing big, using my body and shooting are strengths. Weaknesses include a need to get faster, a need to be dominant with the size I have been blessed with, and playing consistent and producing night after night.
McKeen's: How you would describe yourself to someone who has never seen you play?
Brian Boyle: I am a 6-foot-7' centerman who plays big and has decent hands. I feel as though I have a lot more developing to do, but I play hard.
McKeen's: Do you have any pre-game superstitions?
Brian Boyle: Not too many superstitions, I do have a routine, however. I usually kick a soccer ball around with some of the guys. Then I either ride the bike or do some light squats all to get loose. Prior to warm-ups I also say a decade of the rosary.
McKeen's: Do you play any other sports besides hockey?
Brian Boyle: I played baseball and football in high school. I love all sports and I am very competitive in most things, big or small. I love baseball, though, and I played last summer quite a bit.
McKeen's: Do you have any hobbies or things you like to do in your free time?
Brian Boyle: I enjoy golf and pool. I love to play wiffle ball too. Good things to do in the summer when I enjoy most of my free time.
McKeen's: Do you have a nickname?
Brian Boyle: The guys here just gave me the nickname 'Meat. Ask them why and they just say – 'because you are meat, just meat'.
McKeen's: What is your goal for the 2003-04 season with Boston College?
Brian Boyle: To win the NCAA title, to win the Beanpot, to win the Hockey East league title and the playoff title. Our team has the talent and we can do great things.