Admirals centre of attention
Michael Kucherawy is a classic hybrid centre.
The 15-year-old Dunnville native was fifth in team scoring for the Southern Tier Admirals this season with 16 goals and 33 points in 37 games, but is also a top-notch defensive player.
“I think I’m more of a 200-foot player, more D-zone and try to help my team out there and then obviously help out in the offensive zone when we get the puck there,” the Lakeshore Catholic student said. “Win a lot of important draws and try to be a big leader.”
Kucherawy feels it is vital to play both ends of the ice.
“I think it’s really important to have that well-rounded game because one game you could be putting up the points and one game you could be shutting down the other team’s best player.”
Kucherawy admitted the defensive part of his game may be ahead of the offence at this point of his career.
“I definitely think the offensive part comes a little harder because goalies are really good but the defensive game, if you just stay with your man, defend well and block shots, you should be good,” he said.
Admirals coach Kevin Rosebrugh had no problem using Kucherawy in multiple situations this season.
“Michael Kucherawy is a gritty, hard working 200-foot centre,” Rosebrugh said. “He is really good in the faceoff circle and does all the little things. Michael is a play making centre who sees the ice very well. He was one of our leaders this year and every night he played against the other teams top lines.”
Kucherawy, who has played AAA since minor atom, is looking forward to the OHL draft which begins Friday at 7 p.m. with rounds 1-3 and then continues Saturday at 9 a.m. with round 4-15.
“It’s been a dream of mine for a very long time to get drafted into the OHL so I hope I can make something out of it,” he said.
He has embraced the recruiting process, which included a “good interview” with the Niagara IceDogs.
“I’ve had a few. It’s been fun. A great experience,” he said. “They talk about yourself and your family and just try to get to know you better.”
Kucherawy is going to do whatever he can to out himself in the best position possible to make the jump to junior hockey next season.
“I think I’m going to put as much work as I can into it this summer and get stronger, bigger, faster and I think I should be ready,” he said.
Dear reader. If you liked this story or one of the 5,000 other stories found on our website, please consider hitting the Support Us button on the right-hand side of our home page and making a PayPal contribution to our website. Your support would be much appreciated. If you are a business owner, please consider advertising on our site. Our rates are reasonable and we provide plenty of exposure for your business. Contact bpotrecz@outlook.com for more information.
