We caught up with Brandon Svoboda from Level Green, PA this week prior to the NHL Draft. Svoboda, product of the DICK'S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Penguins Elite Hockey program and is currently ranked 66th among North American skaters.
The Excel Hockey Academy Program was my favorite memory. Getting to go to school with my buddies and then competing on the ice with them everyday was the best part.
Going from U16 hockey to playing in the USHL is a pretty big jump. The speed of the game was the biggest adjustment for me. Being drafted to Youngstown was special only being an hour away from home. My family got to come to all of the home games which was really nice.
Winning the Clark Cup was the best moment I’ve experienced in my life. Especially winning it at home in front of 6,000 fans. I think the team bond we created throughout the season is what separated us from everyone. We were all very close and gave it 110% every single day.
The NHL Combine was surreal. Seeing what the teams had to say about you was pretty special. The testing was my favorite part. I got to compete in specific events against the best of the best.
I’m a 200 foot smooth skating power forward that plays the game the right way. I’m defensively responsible and posses a great skill set. I can shoot it when I get the chance and I love to compete.