Fresh off his commitment announcement to Colgate University, Adam Dauda took the time to speak to me about his hockey prowess. Born in Slovakia, the aptly nicknamed “Slovakian Stallion” has been recently acquired by the Pembroke Lumber Kings this season after a couple of years suiting up for the Cambridge Winterhawks of the GOJHL. The 19 year old powerhouse is expected to light up the lamp for the Lumber Kings in a promising way this season.
March Hockey: You were a huge force with Cambridge last year. What do you think you can bring to the Pembroke Lumber Kings this season
Adam Dauda: I think by playing in big key moments last year; whether it was to shut down an opponents top line or try to get the game tying or winning goal has helped me a tremendous amount to stay calm but at the same time be excited for big moments like that, Hopefully my experience with it there will come in handy.
MH: You’ve played a season of junior in Slovakia. Is there any differences to the junior scene over there as compared to here? Do you have a favourite moment that stands out from playing overseas?
AD: There are some very big differences between the junior hockey here and in Slovakia. All the games over there are played on Olympic sized rinks which means a lot more skating. For me, that usually isn’t the greatest but it gives everyone a little bit more time with the puck to make smarter decisions. The players over there are a lot more skilled and a lot softer. There wasn’t too much hitting in the games also due to the big ice and the players didn’t seem nearly as strong as the ones here. However, the guys over there definitely taught me how to be a more skilled player.
MH: How would you describe your style of play? Is there any player you look up too?
AD: I really look up to Marian Hossa and his style of play. Even though he’s a winger and I’m center I try to play like him; strong on the puck, skilled, good vision, and still back checks like no other. Also, the fact that he’s Slovak too makes me a bit bias.
MH: What’s your game time routine like?
AD: My game time routine has changed a lot over the years but for the past two seasons it’s stayed pretty much the same. I have to listen to The Language by Drake and then a few other songs before every game. They don’t necessarily fire me up it’s a ritual now that I have to do. My warm up clothes have consisted of my jock and flip flops and some pre game sewer ball victories have to be mixed in there too.
MH: Where would like your hockey career to take you?
AD: I would love to go to a good Division 1 school in the states and then hopefully play in the NHL one day. Playing pro over in Europe would be a bit of a dream come true as well.
MH: If you could play against any player, who would it be and why?
AD: If I could play against anyone I would probably pick Alex Ovechkin just because he is one of the best to ever play hockey.
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