An Inside Look With Nick DeSalvo

Happy Thursday Steel Fans!! Guess what?! TOMORROW IS OPENING DAY!! We hope you are as excited as we are. If you haven't bought your tickets, make sure you order them soon! Remember they can be ordered by going to http://tickets.chicagosteelhockeyteam.com or by calling (630) 594-1161. 

Today we sat down with Nick DeSalvo, who helps with our game videos and scouting. Check out the interview below to get an inside look into Nick's job! 

What is your primary role with the Chicago Steel?

Scout, and being a coach on Illinois AAA level, I continue to keep relationships with each of the four AAA team and our draft picks, as well, as the Midwest area.

How did you first get involved with the Steel?

After spending time in New York with the Islanders as a hockey ops intern, I came back home and was recommended to Coach McConnell. Our similarities and passion for the game have been a great fit. His teachings and understanding of the game has rounded out a very good staff.

What is your favorite part about working for the Steel?

The USHL has come such a long way. It’s the in-between route between college and the NHL. Illinois hockey has seen great strides especially in the recent NHL draft. The Steel and ownership have been a big part in that.

What would you say is the hardest part about your job?

The changes in hockey. The game itself is always changing, and you have to be able to adapt as quickly as possible. Each individual has a different way of learning. It’s the hockey staff’s job to get the best out of each player.

What are you looking forward to most this season?

Our young team. A lot of people are skeptical of a young team in this league. I believe they will absorb the underdog role very well and each weekend is a chance to get better and earn a college scholarship.

What is your typical day like at the Steel for you?

Mornings are spent reviewing game film from the previous weekend, more specifically each player. From that we develop practice plans, watch games of opponents from the previous weekend, and then if there are any local game RJ and I will go and watch future potential Steel players. After this I’m on the ice for practice, and then following practice I prepare stuff for the following weekends like confirming the bus, hotel, meals, etc.

What is a typical game day like for you?

In the morning I study game film of the Steel and our opponents. If it is a Friday we will have a morning skate afterwards. Then all of the coaches have a meeting and talk about strategies. We then have our pre-game meal. Once the boys start arriving game planning hits its final course. RJ and I watch warm-ups to match opponent lines and figure out who’s starting in net. During the game I do a live feed of the game or I am on the bench. Following the game I talk with coaches and scouts who have come to watch some of the players. To finish off the night we review game film from our next opponent. 

We hope you enjoyed getting another inside look into the Steel family. Make sure to come back next week when we sit down with Account Executive, Dan London!! 

We hope to see you this weekend Steel Fans!!