Ahh, October. When Hometown USA transforms into Hockey Town once again. When downtown comes alive in a fresh new way. When dinners out turn into dinner and a game (and maybe dinner, a game, and celebratory drinks after the game). We’re psyched for the Adirondack Thunder’s new season, and what better way to start it off than with a new series on GFL - Hockey Town - and what better way to start said new series than with the newly signed (and two time Kelly Cup Champion) - Casey Pierro-Zabotel (you can call him Zabby). Read on to find out what inspired him to play hockey, his favorite moments on the ice, and what he’s looking forward to this season.
Tell us a bit about yourself! Where are you from and how are you settling in to Glens Falls?
My wife Levi and I have been married for 10 years now. We have two children - our son Lane is 10 and our daughter Collins is three. My wife and I are both from the same town called Kamloops in British Columbia, Canada. It's been about a month and it's been really good. Our family is settling in well and we've had the chance to explore around town and it's really nice. We have really enjoyed Glens Falls, and also went to the Great Escape with the family, and a couple trips to Lake George. The people are really friendly here, especially the fans.
ON THE PAST
What inspired you to play hockey?
I started playing hockey because of my parents. They got me started at age 3, so I really had no choice but to play. My father played junior hockey and I was always at the rink with him - he’s the one that got me started, coached me first, and pushed me to play all the time.
Favorite hockey player / team?
My favorite hockey player is Joe Sakic - he’s an elite goal scorer, and he’s on my favorite team (the Colorado Avalanche), and also from British Columbia near where I live.
(Photo: Andy Camp)
ON THE ICE
What do you love the most about being out on the ice?
I love competing every day for a chance to win - winning is the reason I love to play hockey.
What has been a favorite moment of your career so far?
My favorite hockey moment so far is winning back to back Kelly Cups - it took me 7 years to win the first one so that was an amazing feeling.
You've led the league in scoring... what's it feel like to score a goal?
It's amazing, it’s one of the best things about hockey. Everyone wants to score a goal and of course help the team win. And sometimes the opportunities may not come by that easily. Some games, you may not even get a shot on net, then the next it happens all at once. It's a pretty cool feeling to celebrate with your teammates when the fans are going crazy around you.
Any superstitions or regular routines prior to game time?
No superstitions, but my favorite thing to do before a game is play soccer with the guys - it’s a nice way to get loose prior to the intensity of getting out onto the ice.
ON THE UPCOMING SEASON
What made you decide to come to Glens Falls?
We decided to come to Glens Falls because we heard so many great things from friends and guys on the team.
We're excited to welcome you and the team on opening night...any extra adrenaline pumping before a home game?
The first home game of the year is always the best when the fans are all screaming and excited - it gives me a little more energy hearing that.
Looks like we've got an impressive roster. What are you most excited about in the upcoming season?
I’m most excited about this team we have - it’s a really well balanced team and should be a real fun year.
ON THE NEXT GENERATION
Any advice you'd be willing to share for up-and coming players with dreams of playing professionally?
The advice I would give to young kids is to work hard every day in practices and games. Even if you’re not playing, stay at it and most importantly, have fun and just enjoy it.
Thanks Zabby! See you at the game on Saturday - Go Thunder!
