First Off The Bench

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:5  -  Ivan Matulik The story of Ivan Matulik's journey through his professional hockey career is fascinating. It's actually amazing it ever even began. From being smuggled out of the former Czechoslovakia as an N.H.L. drafted teenager - and in the trunk of a car no less - to losing a part of his face in an A.H.L. game, Ivan Matulik's career is the stuff of myth and legend. Matulik went on to play 17 seasons of professional hockey in 7 different countries, captaining teams and winning respect and championships along the way. Whether you're a hockey fan, or simply a fan of persevering over the odds to follow a dream Ivan's story is captivating, inspiring, and a lot of laughs. You can also watch the full video of this interview on YouTube at  "First Off The Bench". Please check it out!  

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:4  -  Mick Vukota From his childhood growing up in Saskatoon and playing in the SAJHL and the WHL, to his 596 games and 2144 P.I.M.'s in the N.H.L., Mick shares some awesome stories and memories about his life, teammates, and career. A great listen with the New York Islanders all-time PIM leader! You can also watch the full video of this interview on YouTube at "First Off The Bench". Please check it out!

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:3  -  Bob Nystrom Known in New York circles as "Mr. Islander", Stockholm-born Bob Nystrom played 1057 N.H.L. games, all with the New York Islanders. Those included 157 playoff games and 4 Stanley Cup Championships, the first of which was captured in 1980 when Nystrom scored the now infamous overtime winner in the finals versus the Philadelphia Flyers. Not only was Bob Nystrom respected by all and feared by many for his tenacious playing style and fighting abilities, but he also recorded almost 600 points during his playing career. He truly was the epitome of a tough, yet skilled, competitor. In recognition of his contribution to the organization, in 1991 the New York Islanders announced the creation of the Bob Nystrom Award, given to the player on the team "Who best exemplifies leadership, hustle, and dedication." He's simply an Isles' legend. You can watch the full video of this interview on YouTube at "First Off The Bench". Please check it out!   

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:2  -  Kirk McLean A two-time N.H.L. All Star and two-time Vezina Trophy finalist, "Captain" Kirk McLean played 612 regular season N.H.L. games as well as 68 N.H.L. playoff games. He is best known for his incredible performance during the Vancouver Canucks 1993/94 Stanley Cup Final playoff run. Kirk shares his memories of growing up in Ontario, his journey to the N.H.L., and the many friends and teammates that influenced him along the way. You can watch the full video of this interview on YouTube at "First Off The Bench". Please check it out!

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:1  -  Jack McIlhargey Jack McIlhargey is a former NHL Player, Coach, and current NHL Scout with the Philadelphia Flyers. Jack was known as a fierce competitor, great teammate, and a top pound-for-pound fighter. Jack shares his journey through his 10 year playing career and his 25 year coaching career. In addition to his Scouting role with the Flyers, Jack is also one of the Directors of the hockey specific social media site HockeyCircles ,where he oversees their one of a kind web-based Player Analytics Program, available to players of all ages and abilities. You can also see the full video of this interview on YouTube at "First Off The Bench". Please check it out!