Features > Player Spotlight- #23 Eric Watters
Player Spotlight- #23 Eric Watters
by Chris Bilder, Generals Staff Writer
Eugene, OR-
Chris Bilder: This is your second season with the team. What have been the differences between this season and last season?
Eric Watters: This year the team is a lot younger and a little more inexperienced, but they have a lot of energy and potential. As far as personal, last year I started a little lower on the lines and I worked my way up. This year I’ve started towards the top, and I’ve been able to keep my point production up and be a dependable player.
CB: At the beginning of last season your line played more of a defensive role, and switched over to an offensive role mid-season. Did that change come naturally to you?
EW: I did a little bit. I’ve always tried to play both sides of the puck. Coming into my first year of Juniors the offensive part of the game came a little bit slower to me, but once I got the defensive side down I was able to focus on the offensive part more. I think I’m doing pretty well with the offensive part of the game right now, but I can always do better
CB: Last season you had 19 goals and 18 assists (37 points) in 47 games, and this season you have 22 goals and 12 assists (34 points) in 17 games. What has brought on the barrage of scoring for you this season?
EW: The main part is starting off on one of the top lines, and my line mates have been great.
CB: What are your goals for the season?
EW: Definitely move onto a D-III, or D-I college team if possible, and as always win the league and go to Nationals.
CB: What is it like being a captain on the team?
EW: It’s a great feeling. Its my first time being a captain or an alternate captain for a higher level team. I try to play my normal game, and be a good lead-by-example captain.
CB: In your opinion, what is the one thing you bring to the table that most benefits the team?
EW: I think my hard work ethic and my overall knowledge of the game is the most beneficial to the team.
CB: What has been your favorite moment over the past two seasons?
EW: I’d have to say it’s a tie between the bus trips and our record breaking season last year.
CB: What have been the benefits to your hockey career of having a father who played in the NHL?
EW: I just think all of the knowledge and advice that I have at my fingertips, and can get anytime I want. Always having a coach there is a good thing.
CB: What does the team need to do to beat River City this weekend?
EW: I think we need to settle down and play solid d-zone systems, stay out of the box and bury our chances.
CB: Because this is Thanksgiving weekend, what are a couple things that you are thankful for?
EW: I’m thankful for family, friends and a great group of guys to play with this year.