S91 Shubham Anand Interview

[Will3 465]

The time has now come to catch up with recent bronze medalist and VHL rookie Shubham Anand. So many things have changed since our last interview. But have thise changes been for better or worse? We will catch up on the ending in the VHLE playoffs, the training to prepare for entry into VHL, the trade to Riga, and his feelings on his new team to answer that question.

 

So back to last the end of last season. The team you were captain of were destroyed in five game in the VHLE playoffs after winning the Victory Cup. Describe how you felt after that last game.

 

Pain. I figured the Victory Cup curse would strike and tried to prepare the team so that it wouldn't happen. Still I was powerless to prevent the inevitable. After all the madness that  happened to me in the VHLE, I wanted that Renaissance Cup more than anyone. But is just wasn't ment to be. All I can do now it look ahead to VHL play.

 

Do you  feel ready for VHL after spending two seasons in the VHLE?

 

Given how average I played as one of the top players on a great VHLE team, staying down in the VHLE to develop my player was the right call.  I worked so hard last season and it should pay off now. I worked hard on every aspect of my game. I am more that ready for VHL play.  I believe that I might even have a breakout season and completefor Rookie of the Year.

 

Lets move on to who you will be playing you rookie season for. Because it isn't the team that drafted you. The Calgary Wranglers traded you to  the Riga Reign just before the S91 Draft. What are your thoughts about this move?

 

The Wranglers organization is great and I am grateful for the mentorship that was given to me. I wanted to reward the faith the organization has put in me. But big moves resulted in there not being any room for me both in cap and roster. Thus I was moved and I ended up with Fradin McGryer again which is always a pulse. While I am a little disappointed that I don't get to play for the team that drafted me, I do think this move will work out for me. 

 

One last question for you. Who do you feel about you new team.  Will the Reign have a great season this year?

 

This team is an intriguing mix of veterans and youth. Certainly enough to compete both now and in the future. A good retool has this team set up well and our contending window should be opening. We should at least make the playoffs with the possibilityof a deep run should everything work out.

 

That is all we have for today. As always I appreciate your sharing your thoughts and opinions with us. Congratulations on the bronze metal in the World Junior Championship and Good luck on the season.

 

Thanks. I appreciate it.