HEADLINES

NAME: Nick Vacsulka

SCHOOL: California University of PA

HOMETOWN: Belle Vernon, PA

YEAR: Senior

POSITION: Defense

 

Q: What is the single best thing about playing college hockey for your current CHE team?
A: We are not just teammates; we are a family. We have each others' backs on the ice and off the ice. We do many things together as a group outside of the game -- we have team cook outs and team outings when we travel.

 

Q: What is the most-memorable hockey game you have ever been involved in, at any level?
A: My best memory is playing in the Penguins Cup final at Mellon Arena during my freshman year at Serra Catholic High School.

 

Q: Are there any routines or rituals you must stick to before every game, such as listening to a certain song?
A: There are several, but most importantly, I have to be the first one completely dressed prior to a game. And I am always the second one out on the ice, following the goalie.

 

Q: Which opposing CHE team do you really enjoy playing against, and why?
A: I like playing against UPJ because it's always a good game. Those games are always competitive.

 

Q: If you were put in charge of the entire sport of hockey and could change just one thing about the game, what would it be?
A: If I could change one thing about the sport of hockey, I would make it more affordable for those who want to play.

 

Q: What made you choose to attend your current school?
A: I wanted to study criminal justice and have the opportunity to play hockey. Cal U offered both of those things, and it was close to my hometown.

 

Q: What is your major and what do you want to do with it after graduation?
A: I am majoring in criminal justice with a forensic science concentration. I have applied to the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. My goal is to some day work in a forensic lab.

 

Q: What person outside of your family has done the most for you?
A: My coach, Jason Greenway, has done the most for me. He has always believed in my hockey ability and has taught me a lot about the sport. He has pushed me to become a better player throughout my college career. He has also been someone I can count on when I need advice or someone to talk to.

 

Q: Would you rather be Superman or Batman, and why?
A: Batman because he has all the cool gadgets and a nice car!

 

Q: What are your two favorite apps on your smartphone, and why?
A: Instagram and Snapchat are my favorites.  These are great apps for keeping in touch with friends and family. It is fun looking at all of the pictures that people post.