NMU Hockey Fresh Faces: Freshman Darren Nowick

Editor's note: Mining Journal Sports Editor Matt Wellens introduces the eight incoming Wildcats who will take the ice for the Northern Michigan University hockey team this season. Check back daily to meet a new fresh face.

Name (number): Darren Nowick (20)

Position: Forward

Year: Freshman

Age: 20

Height: 5-11

Weight:185

Hometown: Long Beach, Calif.

Last club (league): Vernon Vipers (BCHL)

Major: Business

Hobbies: Beach, golf, roller hockey

Favorite NHL team: Detroit Red Wings

Favorite NHL player: Pavel Datsyuk

Strongest skill on the ice: Takeaways

Weakest skill on the ice: Not being fast enough

The time you spent watching the NHL will now be spent on what during the lockout?

“Studying and getting my grades up. They are low right now.”

Who has been the biggest influence on your hockey career?

“My parents because they did everything for me, taking me to early morning practices. My brother played hockey to so taking us to a tournament, me to a tournament and having to meet back in the middle. They’ve done everything for me.”

In head coach Walt Kyle’s words: “He has real good skills, good hands, really creative with the puck — a California kid. He has good speed, good puck chasing ability. We think this kid can turn into a real offensive contributor over time.”