Oskar's Appearance on the Evan Anderson Show

[Bobo 514]

THE EVAN ANDERSON SHOW: Inside A Player’s Mindset w/ Oskar Kiprusoff

 

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Interviewer Evan Anderson: “Hello Oskar, welcome to the city of brotherly love. I trust you have felt at home here in the americas.” 

 

Oskar Kiprusoff: “Thank you Evan, and yes I have felt at home here in the United States. Everyone is so friendly and kind towards me and my family. The city lives up to its name.”

 

E. Anderson: “Glad to hear it. I’m going to ask you some questions here today on what your experience with hockey in Finland is like, and your experience with  joining the VHLM, more specifically the Reapers. Ok?”

 

O. Kiprusoff: “Let’s begin...I’m ready.” 

 

E. Anderson: “Ok. So, Oskar, how would you describe your playing career out in Finland. Discuss your experiences with me, your opinions on the team you played for, and anything else you feel should be discussed.”

 

O. Kiprusoff: “For sure. Playing hockey in Finland’s LIIGA was a great experience that I would always remember. My teammates and staff were always there for me whenever I needed assistance on anything. It was my home away from home at the rink. My father played professional hockey for the same team I played for in Finland, and more well known, the Calgary Flames of the NHL of course. Turku TPS fans also made the experience a great one. They brought the energy for every game of the season. To be fair, it’s far from the same here. Those fans dedicated their life to a single team. Bought all kinds of merchandise, lived in a house that pretty much promoted the team, and ate food that the players ate. I might be exaggerating a bit, but I’ll promise you, I’m not...”

 

E. Anderson: “Sorry to cut you off Oskar, but I have a follow up to your statement. Why did you choose the team you played for, Turku TPS?”

 

O. Kiprusoff: “Good question. I chose TPS for the singular fact that it was closest to my hometown and my father played for them. No other reason why. Fans are like other teams in the league, the arena is almost the same among all teams, and the environment is always electric. It’s just the family significance of the team that made me choose that team to sign with and commit to. Not to say it was that easy though, many other teams wanted me very badly. One team in particular, the Pelicans, wanted me so badly, that they considered trying to use money to lure me into their team. I might’ve been paid one million dollars or more by their front office! That’s a lot of money for a player as young as me to be making. We usually make very little money, but I guess I’m an exception.”

 

E. Anderson: “I guess so. Next question because I'm sure a lot of people want to know this, why Philly, why the Reapers? Explain.”

 

O. Kiprusoff: “For sure Evan. I’ve been watching film on all teams for the past few months, and the Reapers really impressed me with their ability to make plays with efficiency, drive the puck up the ice well, and play a solid game all around. It wasn’t an easy decision, as many teams reached out to my camp for offers. I chose the Reapers too due to their incredible fanbase. I know, I know, I said that I didn’t care about the fanbase back in Finland...But here, the fans are one of a kind and always are supportive of the team. No matter the record and placement on the league standings. I love the city a lot too, Philadelphia always caught my eye, due to the historical significance and food. More food.”

 

E. Anderson: “Haha, that’s funny. Oskar, thank you for your time on my show. I really appreciate your time and fascinating info on hockey in Finland. I have to visit sometime.”

 

O. Kiprusoff: “Thanks Evan, you really do have to visit sometime. Just know you have a place to stay for free. Good food comes included.” 

 

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Spoiler

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