Interview with Jeremy Smith
I just got off the phone with Nashville Predators’ goaltending prospect Jeremy Smith (their #2 pick this year) as my boss at Michigan Hockey needed me to conduct an interview with him for our tryout guide coming out next month. Since he’ll probably only use one quote for the article, I figured I’d post the entire interview here. I also asked him a couple questions about being drafted and working with the Predators this offseason. Oh, Smith was also one of the two Plymouth Whalers’ goaltenders this past season as well.
What do you remember about trying out for a team while growing up? For example, did you ever get cut from a team but worked hard and made it the next year or got so nervous you did something embarassing?
“I think growing up tryouts as a goalie was pretty difficult because it was you versus a couple of guys for only two positions on a team. You can’t slack off a bit because coaches are always watching. From a young age, it was pretty nervewracking. Moving from travel to AAA is probably the biggest step. You see kids who are really good and you can get intimidated but then you have to think and have confidence in yourself and in your own game. You deserve to go out there and really give it your all.”
What do you do to calm yourself down when you get nervous at a tryout?
“I actually try to think back to the positives and the basics. As a goaltender, you start thinking about making the first save and being in the correct position. Making sure you’re in the right position for the second save as well.”
What suggestions would you give to younger Michigan hockey players who are about to try out for teams this summer?
“I would probably have to say, don’t be afraid at all. I mean when you go out there, there might be a ton of players but the coaches are looking for the best ones and the ones working the hardest. And if you work hard and are really dedicated, I’m sure you’re going to find a team that’ll fit you perfectly.”
Since you were just drafted, you’ll be trying out for the Nashville Predators in the near future future. What are you doing to prepare for that?
“They (Nashville Predators) actually had a conditioning camp last week and I went down there. We worked out every day. We got on the ice a couple of times. We did a lot of team bonding so that was pretty good. They’re actually flying me back out Monday again to work with the strength and conditioning coach to run on the track and to lift weights to stay in shape and get ready for camp in September.”
Have they given you any suggestions for this year to improve your game?
“They said as a goalie, you want to get into as many games as you can and get in as many situations as possible. I think that’s the big key for myself and for my future game.”
What were the thoughts going through your head when Nashville announced your name as their second pick selection?
“I was excited. My family was ecstatic. I think it was a perfect situation for myself and the organization. I can’t wait to join them.”
Did the NHL Draft weekend go by in a blur or did you have the time to truly enjoy the opportunity?
“I think I actually had time to sit back and enjoy it. We got down there Wednesday and I got to walk around downtown. The city was great and the people were amazing. With all my family there to support me, I think it was just a great time and it was a dream of a lifetime.”
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