"First Off The Bench"  Ep:5  -  Ivan MatulikThe story of Ivan Matulik's journey through his professional hockey career is fascinating. It's actually amazing it ever even began. From being smuggled out of the former Czechoslovakia as an N.H.L. drafted teenager - and in the trunk of a car no less - to losing a part of his face in an A.H.L. game, Ivan Matulik's career is the stuff of myth and legend. Matulik went on to play 17 seasons of professional hockey in 7 different countries, captaining...

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:4  -  Mick VukotaFrom his childhood growing up in Saskatoon and playing in the SAJHL and the WHL, to his 596 games and 2144 P.I.M.'s in the N.H.L., Mick shares some awesome stories and memories about his life, teammates, and career. A great listen with the New York Islanders all-time PIM leader!You can also watch the full video of this interview on YouTube at "First Off The Bench". Please check it out!

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:3  -  Bob NystromKnown in New York circles as "Mr. Islander", Stockholm-born Bob Nystrom played 1057 N.H.L. games, all with the New York Islanders. Those included 157 playoff games and 4 Stanley Cup Championships, the first of which was captured in 1980 when Nystrom scored the now infamous overtime winner in the finals versus the Philadelphia Flyers.Not only was Bob Nystrom respected by all and feared by many for his tenacious playing style and fighting abilities,...

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:2  -  Kirk McLeanA two-time N.H.L. All Star and two-time Vezina Trophy finalist, "Captain" Kirk McLean played 612 regular season N.H.L. games as well as 68 N.H.L. playoff games. He is best known for his incredible performance during the Vancouver Canucks 1993/94 Stanley Cup Final playoff run. Kirk shares his memories of growing up in Ontario, his journey to the N.H.L., and the many friends and teammates that influenced him along the way. You can watch the full video...

"First Off The Bench"  Ep:1  -  Jack McIlhargeyJack McIlhargey is a former NHL Player, Coach, and current NHL Scout with the Philadelphia Flyers. Jack was known as a fierce competitor, great teammate, and a top pound-for-pound fighter. Jack shares his journey through his 10 year playing career and his 25 year coaching career.In addition to his Scouting role with the Flyers, Jack is also one of the Directors of the hockey specific social media site HockeyCircles ,where he oversees their one of...