QA With Wojtek Wolski

2004 NHL Draft prospect Wojtek Wolski (pronounced VOY-teck VOHL-skee) of the Brampton Battalion (OHL). He finished 3rd in Rookie Scoring in 2002-03 with 25 goals and 32 assists. Born in Zabrze, Poland he moved with his family to Germany, where they lived for two years before immigrating to Canada in 1990. Wolski was a member of Team Ontario at the 2003 Canada Winter Games.

McKeens: When and where did you start playing hockey?

Wojtek Wolski: I started playing hockey when I was seven in Toronto for the West Mall Lighting.

McKeens: Is there any particular person who has been influential in your development?

Wojtek Wolski: I think my dad, because he always made me work hard and still helps me out everyday. Jari Byrski also helped me out with the more skilled part of hockey.

McKeens: Are there any players in the NHL you watch and admire?

Wojtek Wolski: Forsberg and Fedorov, because both are very skilled but also play well defensively.

McKeens: What do you love most about playing hockey?

Wojtek Wolski: I like the competitiveness and the fact that any team can win, it all depends whose better that day.

McKeens: What is your biggest success in hockey so far?

Wojtek Wolski: Rookie of the year in Junior 'A' (2001-02 with the St. Michael's

Buzzers) or being drafted 3rd overall (2002 OHL Priority Selection).

McKeens: How would you describe your game to someone who has never seen you play?

Wojtek Wolski: I feel I'm pretty skilled offensively and create a lot of scoring chances for my linemates.

McKeens: What do you think is the strongest part of your game?

Wojtek Wolski: I feel my offensive skill is the best part of my game.

McKeens: Do you have any pre-game superstitions?

Wojtek Wolski: I have a 15min period between the time I sleep, eat, and leave to go to the arena. I also make sure to go through certain doors entering the arena.

McKeens: Do you play any other sport besides hockey?

Wojtek Wolski: I versatility play all kinds of sports, but no longer play any other competitive sports.

McKeens: What do you feel you have to improve on before making the jump to the next level?

Wojtek Wolski: I feel I have to mature physically; I just need time to get stronger.

McKeens: Do you have any hobbies or things you like to do on your free time?

Wojtek Wolski: I like to mountain bike, and spend time with my friends since during the season I don't get to spend a lot of time with them.

McKeens: Do you have a nickname?

Wojtek Wolski: Wowo, Woj, Tushy, W Squared, Vortx and Wojo.

McKeens: What is your goal for the 2003-03 season?

Wojtek Wolski: I'd like to be consistent and hopefully get drafted high in the 2004 NHL Draft.