Features > Player Spotlight- #9 Michael Frei
Player Spotlight- #9 Michael Frei
by Chris Bilder, Generals Staff Writer
Eugene, OR- Michael Frei is a 5-10 185 lb. forward from Zurich, SUI, and is one of only two Generals players who have been with the team for three years. Frei has been with the Generals for 12 games this season after a breif stint with the Alaska Avalanche in the North American Hockey League (NAHL), and has already moved into third on the Generals with 29 points. Frei is the Generals all-time point leader with 191.
CB: You came back for your third season with the Generals after a brief stint with the Alaska Avalanche in the NAHL. How would you describe your time with the Avalanche?
MF: It was a lot of fun. I think I got a lot of experience with a new level of hockey, and living in Alaska.
CB: You are now third on the Generals in points with 29, and you’ve only played twelve games. Are you happy with your performance thus far?
MF: Half and half. I think I can still pick up my game.
CB: Nine of your 29 points have come on special teams. Why do you thrive on the powerplay and the penalty kill?
MF: I enjoy being on special teams, and so far it’s worked out quite well. I feel like the tools that I have really fit well with the powerplay and on the penalty kill.
CB: You are the career point leader for the Generals with 191. What does that mean to you?
MF: I can’t wait to hit 200!
CB: You’re now on pace to have 85 points at the end of the season, which would break your personal record of 73. Do you think you’ll be able to break your personal record, and how many points do you think you’ll have at the end of the season?
MF: I think I’ll be able to break it. I don’t have a specific number I can throw out there, but I’m confident I can break it.
CB: You are one of two players on the Generals that are allowed to play who not from the United States? Does it give you added motivation to know that you’re one of only 26 possible international players in NORPAC?
MF: I doesn’t feel any different. I still wear the same jersey as everybody else. In the end its just hockey and I have all the motivation I need.
CB: What are your personal goals for the season?
MF: I want to get into college. I don’t have a particular school I’d like to play for, but I want to play Division I hockey next year.
CB: You’re one of only two players who have been with the Generals for three years. What has been your favorite moment with the team?
MF: Going to the Cascade Cup Finals three years ago. I wish it could have had a happier ending, but I’m really proud we were able to make it as far as we did.
CB: Where do you want the team to be at the end of the season?
MF: As far as possible. It would be great to make it to the Cascade Cup Finals and win it this time.
CB: What are your goals for hockey in the future?
MF: Again, just to go as far as I possibly can. At the same time I’d like to get a degree to balance my life.