David Wrigley takes on the Asian League

28 Sep 2012 | Matthew Cross

David Wrigley joined the Tohoku Freeblades at the beginning of the season as a new import. David previously played from 2007-2012 in the German Leagues. Over 191 games he accrued 72 goals, 99 assists and 186 PIM. He also played 24 playoff games where he had 14 goals, 11 assists, and 22 PIM.

While the season is still young David is leading the league both in goals, with 8, and points overall, with 17. He is also a +15 only six games into the season. Recently, David got a chance to answer some questions for Eurohockey about his experience in the German leagues as well as his early impressions on the Asia League.

Eurohockey: Tell us a little bit about your time in the German Leagues, can you name a couple of big highlights?
David Wrigley: I really enjoyed my time in Germany. The hockey was at a very high level and the leagues are ran very professionally. I was lucky to have spent most my time in Munich. It is a great city with a lot of great people. My most memorable moment was wining the 2nd league championship. That whole playoff run was exciting and being able to win in Munich was a great experience.

EH:You've been in the Asia League a short time, but how do you feel the level of play compares to your previous experience?
DW: The level of play here is good. It is as fast or faster than in Germany. Hockey is relatively new here so there is some learning to be done still but there is a lot of potential.

EH: What are some of the adjustments you have had to make to your play style?
DW: There haven't been a lot of adjustments needed. We play a more offensive style on this team and I've had to switch from man on man defense to zone.

EH: How about moving to Japan? What was the experience like? Did the team provide an interpreter and set up everything for you?
DW: Moving to Japan was very easy. The team took care of all the arrangements. Flew into the Narita airport near Tokyo and had someone meet me there who spoke English. I was escorted through the airport and onto the train which took me to Hachinohe. The team has been extremely professional and treated me great.

EH: How do the Japanese fans compare to the ones in Germany?
DW:The fans here are great. Very similar to that in Germany. The make a lot of noise with drums and other objects. They have welcomed us imports from the beginning. They are passionate about the sport and seem to really enjoy watching the games.

EH: It is early, but you're currently among the top in overall points, do you feel you'll maintain that pace over the season?
DW: I hope to be able to help the team win games. My individual success is secondary. I'm playing on a line with good Japanese players so I hope to continue to contribute to our success.

EH: With the NHL locked out, do you think any of the Asian teams might try and upgrade their foreign imports?
DW: I'm sure some teams will be thinking about adding to their rosters with NHL players. I don't think it will affect the imports here already.
From what I understand the NHL players that may come will just be added to the roster as opposed to replacing other players.

EH: Having played in Europe for several years, what kind of impact do you think it will have there?
DW: I dont think it will affect Germany too much but it does take jobs away from guys all over Europe. I understand that the NHL players have to think about themselves and play anywhere they can to stay in top shape but it can hurt another players career depending on how long the lockout lasts. It's unfortunate but that happens.

EH: Do you feel there is a cultural influence on the game in Asia?
DW: I do see a cultural influence in this league. The Japanese culture seems to promote humility and therefore you don't see players wanting to be in the spotlight. Players would rather pass than be the one who scores. There is a serious hierarchy amongst the team according to age and it is taken very seriously by the younger players.

EH: Did you eat Japanese food before coming to Japan? got a favorite dish yet?
DW: I ate a lot of sushi before moving to Japan but it was never as good as the sushi I've had here. All of the food I've had so far is outstanding. I'd have to say the sushi is my favorite though. It is incredibly simple but nothing like ive had before.

EH: Thank you for your time!