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| Last updated at 7:53 AM on 31/12/08 |
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John Meaney/The Beacon
SPRAYFUL – Gander’s Ryan Matheson, who is playing for the Halifax Mooseheads of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, skated last week at the Gander Community Centre during his Christmas break.
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A rookie's world 
Gander's Matheson patiently awaits his time to shine for Mooseheads
BY JOHN MEANEY
The Beacon
Gander's Ryan Matheson just completed the first half of his rookie season with the Halifax Mooseheads of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, and it has been a little frustrating for the 17-year-old rookie.
"It's been a bit frustrating for me because of a lack of ice time," said Matheson. "I do understand I'm a rookie, and there are some dues to pay before I get in the lineup on a regular basis."
Matheson last saw action on Oct. 10, against the Montreal Juniors, in a 4-1 loss. Previously, the blueliner played in three of the team's first 12 games, and did not collect any points.
However, while Matheson sits as a healthy scratch, his regime remains constant, and he continues to work hard attending all Moosehead games, practices and off-ice training.
"Even though I haven't been in the lineup much, I have improved my game since arriving with the team in September. I'm working harder in practice, and the coaches have complimented my work ethic, as well, I've taken my conditioning to a new level," said Matheson. "As a healthy scratch, you head to the workout room, while the team warming up. Basically, I'm in the gym anywhere from four to five times a week, including the two team sessions. I know this conditioning is going to pay off."
Matheson said he is optimistic about getting inserted into the lineup a little more frequently than in the first 36 games of the season, as rumours surround the team about its direction for the second half.
"There are a number of rumours about trades, thus some guys are moving on and it may free up some room for the 11 rookies, including me. The coaches have told me I should get in more games because of this movement. They want to give some of the rookies an opportunity since the season hasn't gone as well as planned," said Matheson.
Currently, the Mooseheads are in second last place, and remain two points out of the final playoff berth, with a record of 10-24, plus one overtime loss and a shootout loss, for 22 points.
"We still have a good chance at making the playoffs, but the team has struggled and everyone is disappointed," said Matheson.
With the lack of ice time, Matheson was asked about whether he has considered junior A as an option, where in all likelihood, he would be a regular starter.
"I've talked about it briefly with my family, and I really want to play in Halifax. I love the city, and I am playing with a great bunch of guys and a great organization. Sure, I'm frustrated a little and disappointed, but I'm committed to the team and the team has said they are committed to me," said Matheson. "I spoke with other players and asked about their rookie campaigns. I am in the same boat as most rookies, who played in 12 or 13 games in the first season, so I'm happy where I am, and I will continue to work hard."
Matheson describes his new life as challenging, but enjoyable and said he has adjusted well and is loving the whole experience of playing with the Moosehead.
"The game in the Q is much faster and you have to be quicker, but patient at the same time. The players are also much bigger, so while I was considered a big guy in AAA Midget, I'm considered a small player in the Q," said Matheson, who now tips the scales at 175 pounds.
Off the ice, Matheson is surrounded by great group of teammates, along with six other fellow Newfoundlanders.
"Having guys from home on the team really helps with the adjustment and makes the transition to Halifax so much easier," said Matheson. "Time is flying by, it seems like we just got here and now the season is half over."
Matheson said he has done what is required to prepare himself to play by going through video of his play, and knows where he needs to improve. He said he feels he has put in the time on all aspects, and now it's down to getting the opportunity to show the team what he has learned and can do.
"I'm looking forward to getting back on the ice. I'm prepared, and ready to go," said Matheson.
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31/12/08
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Rose Kean from Meaford, ON writes: Sounds like a sharp well spoken young man!
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| Posted 02/01/2009 at 11:09 AM | Alert an Editor | Link to comment |
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