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Lakers Blast from the Past - Chad McQuaid

Welcome to our new Lakers weekly segment "Blast from the Past." Each week BayToday's Joey Butkevich will sit down and chat with a player about their past and their journey to North Bay and the Nipissing Lakers hockey program.
BayToday Staff
Welcome to our new Lakers weekly segment "Blast from the Past." Each week BayToday's Joey Butkevich will sit down and chat with a player about their past and their journey to North Bay and the Nipissing Lakers hockey program. Today's guest is Lakers forward Chad McQuaid.

Where have you lived throughout your life?

I was born and raised in Cornwall, Prince Edward Island. I have also lived in Port Hope, Ontario for one year when I was 20, where I played for the Port Hope Predators Junior A team. And now I live in North Bay, where I attend Nipissing and play for the Lakers.

Biggest superstition's growing up?

I used to always tape my right shin pad first. I would also tape a lucky penny to the top of my hockey stick.

Role model growing up? Why?

Most of my role models growing up were older relatives and close acquaintances. I always looked up to the older boys in the neighbourhood that I would play ball hockey with.

Who did you pattern your game after growing up?

I think I tried to imitate my game after a lot of the all-time greats, such as; Joe Sakic and Stevie Y. I also would take bits and pieces from their game and make it my own.

What has made you successful as a hockey player?

I think just playing a simple game and having the opportunity to play with good players has allowed me to develop.

What do you think the game of hockey and life have in common?

Many things in hockey can be related to everyday life situations. Discipline, sacrifices, hard work and determination are keys to success. Also, social skills and great friendships are developed through hockey. Most of my friends today are or have been a teammate of mine at one point in time.

Your brother is Adam McQuaid of the Boston Bruins, What has your brother meant to you?
Adam has probably been the biggest influence in my life. We are so close in age we basically did everything together growing up and still do to this day. He has been an amazing role model for me, both on and off the ice.

Has it been hard being the younger brother of a professional hockey player? Any Perks?

Not really, I think most people realize we are two different individuals. The perks definitely outweigh the downfalls. Getting to meet and hang out with high-end hockey players is pretty fun.

Since your brother is part of the Bruins organization you got to witness a pretty amazing event. Describe what the Winter Classic at Fenway Park was like? What was your brothers thoughts?

Fenway was amazing. My brother agreed that the experience was almost surreal.

What sports did you participate in away from hockey growing up?

I played many sports growing up. Always played soccer in the summers. Also played school basketball and represented PEI in several national badminton tournaments.

Best practical joke you've seen in hockey?

There have been many, but the one that sticks out the most is the "leaner". In the hotel room on the road we would fill up a bucket of water and lean it against some ones door. Then knock and run. That one never gets old!

Best hockey moment you have taken part in?

I got to skate on the outdoor rink at fenway the day before the winter classic. Between that and playing first game for Lakers in front of the north bay crowd.

Advice for local hockey players? Ways to improve/motivate?

Simply have fun, and don't be afraid to try something new.

What's your take on hockey in Northern Ontario?

I've traveled all over and played in many places, but I think the fans in North Bay are second to none.

Any local hockey player from your area that was a big influence? Why?

Brad Richards, not many players are from PEI have done what he has. Stanley cup, World Championship, World Jr., Memorial Cup, and the Lady Byng trophy.

Favourite all-time hockey pump-up song?

My Hero - Foo Fighters

Your final message
To all the Lakers fans... we can't thank you enough for your continued support. Your time, efforts and enthusiasm is second to none!!

Photo courtesy Brendan O'Connor