BY Jonathan Huntington
SASKATOON – It’s the first day of school for Roger McQueen at Providence College in Rhode Island – an NCAA Division 1 university.
“It’s pretty sweet,” said McQueen, when asked his early impressions of Rhode Island. “I am taking four classes.”
It has been a whirlwind 10 weeks for the former Saskatoon Blazer. Drafted 10th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in late June, McQueen has had a memorable summer – including throwing out the first pitch at a Major League Baseball game in Anaheim. “Oh boy, that was so nerve wracking,” McQueen stated. “There was like 20,000 people there and I threw it a little high.”
The former Holy Cross Collegiate grad also made the decision this summer to leave the WHL (Brandon Wheat Kings) for the NCAA. “Originally, I got a good feeling talking to the coach (in Providence) and two of my best buddies were already here (in Providence),” explained McQueen. “I also felt that the college season (44 games) would be better for my back (compared to longer WHL season).”
It has been four years since McQueen played for the Saskatoon Blazers, but he remembers the season like it was yesterday. “The guys on the team were unbelievable – the closest team in my life. I still talk to every player on the team,” he said.
And while McQueen has so much to focus on as he prepares for the NCAA season-opener on October 10th, he has some important advice for players just starting their U18AAA journey in Saskatchewan.
“The biggest thing is to try to take the pressure off,” he remarked. “I ended the first half of that season with three goals. It was a tough start. But it’s a new league with bigger players and there is a skill gap.”
McQueen scored 20 goals in the second-half of the season – to prove that a slow start can be erased.
FINISH LINES: Due to NCAA rules, McQueen will not be participating in NHL training camp this fall… Former Saskatoon Blazer teammate Hudson Malinoski is about to start his third year in Providence. He has 20 goals and 41 points over 70 games in his first two years.
