By: Ken Oda, minotauroshockey.com
As the season approaches we will be giving you a chance to meet the new Tauros as well as learn a little more about the returning players by asking them 20 questions. We will be going in number order; yesterday we met Grayson Gavin and today we hear from Troy Degler. Come back tomorrow to hear from Chase Di Bari. For links to all of the past Tauros 20 Questions look to the bottom of this page.
Troy Degler comes back for his third and final season in the Magic City. In 93 games over the last two seasons Degler has 10 goals, 30 assists, and a +6 rating. He will be without his running mate for the last two seasons Jake Howie, the pair had skated together consistently in all three phases of play since joining the Tauros on the same weekend in Brookings in November of 2013. Despite new linemates Degeler should continue to excel because he is constantly working.
Degler is a solid two-way player who despite being only 5’8” and 150 lbs, does not shy away from the dirty areas of the ice. Despite his lack of size, or perhaps because of it, Degler always seems to be the one to sneak out of board battles with the puck. A pass first player Degler’s 50 shots in 55 games last season were the third fewest among Tauros who played more than 20 games. By comparison his most common linemates Jake Howie and James Mathias had 146 and 149 shots respectively. With both of those players gone to college, two new Tauros will benefit from playing with the selfless centerman.
From the Coach’s Office: Along with Walker and Brandt, Troy Degler will be back for his third year with the Tauros. Troy played great for us down the stretch, and for a guy that's small in stature, wins are large percentage of his battles and is relentless is all aspects of his game. We think Troy can take it to another level offensively this season, and will be counted on heavily in both ends of the rink. – Head Coach Marty Murray
20 Questions
Do you have a nickname: Degs
Older/younger siblings: 1 younger brother named Riley age 17
Favorite NHL team/player: Pittsburgh Penguins/Mario Lemieux
Why (if you did) did you pick your number: It was my Grandfathers number while playing in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Pregame routine: Before the game i like to ride the stationary bike and shortly after play some sewer ball with my teammates then warm up with the team and lastly Stretch out my lower body to avoid any injuries.
Ideal pregame meal: Pasta
Any hockey superstitions: I always put gear on my left side before the right.
Best hockey memory: Going to Nationals my first year of ever playing Junior Hockey
Personal goals for this season: Expanding my hockey skill level and getting a college commitment.
Favorite school subject: Biology
Favorite vacation spot: The Florida Keys
Favorite zoo animal: Alligators
Favorite junk food: McDonalds cheese burgers
Favorite musician: Flux Pavilion
What song would you sing for Karaoke: Hey Ya! by Outkast
Favorite cartoon as a kid: SpongeBob
Hidden talent: I can Melbourne Shuffle
Who is your dream date: Elizabeth Gillies
Who would play you in a movie: Rhys Wakefield
If you could go back in time when/where would you go: I would go back to my first year of Juniors to relive all the great times and fun i had with lifelong friends i made along the way.
Previous Tauros 20 Questions