Enjoying The Game Is The Key To Ross Krieger’s On Ice Success
Ross Krieger with the University of Toronto Varsity Blues – Photo by Seyran Mammadov
“My first season playing at University of Toronto has been a lot fun. The group we have here is great,” he said.
The game of hockey, after all, is supposed to be fun.
Krieger recently finished a 5 season Junior hockey career which included PJHL Stobbs Rookie of the Year honours with the Dresden Kings, GOJHL All Rookie Team honours the following year with the Chatham Maroons, and three seasons in the OJHL, finishing with the Georgetown Raiders.
With all of that success, Krieger was surprised by the talent level in the OUA, playing against a large number of Major Junior, Junior A, and Junior B stars.
“The caliber of hockey is very good, I was surprised with how difficult and fast it is.”
Despite that statement, Krieger has a spectacular freshman season compiling 9 goals and 16 points in 23 games, impressive totals at the OUA level.
“I think for the most part I was just enjoying myself and having fun with it,” Krieger said, downplaying his success. “The older guys and my roommates made it very easy to transition into the league and school.”
Now, like many, Krieger is missing not only playing the game, but watching the game of hockey as the coronavirus has shut down leagues across the world. Krieger however, understands the importance of social distancing in stopping the spread of COVID-19.
“It’s different for sure, going to be weird not watching hockey. But obviously it’s best to stay away from large groups for now and stay healthy.”
With a healthy offseason ahead for Krieger, it will be exciting to see what he can accomplish in year two with the University of Toronto Varsity Blues.