Aspray Glasgow West sponsored Glasgow Clan defenceman Mitch Jones revealed he has a new motivation behind him as he looks ahead to the new season.
The blue-liner was a popular returnee from last season’s team and with the countdown before he returns to Scotland becoming days rather than weeks, he’s looking forward to coming back.
But he said having his family travel with him this time will make all the difference and admits packing is a bit different this time.
“My wife is certainly excited by coming over, seeing some sights and getting lots of pictures, but for me, having my daughter in the rink too will make it extra special for me,” he said.
“She’ll get to see me play, which gives me extra motivation. When my dad played, I caught some of his games at the tail end of his career and it’s nice to have those moments to look back on.
“Those were special times and I hope for the same thing with my daughter so I can’t wait for things like that.
“We’re definitely at the stage now where we’re starting to think about packing and with my wife and daughter coming this time, there’s more work involved.
“They didn’t come over last time so it was a struggle at times. Going to the rink was my safe haven, but with them coming with me, I’ll do everything I can to help them settle in and be comfortable.
“I’ll have a new attitude on things, not that I didn’t have that last year, but a lot of the other guys had their families with them. For me, it made the days a little longer.
“When I’m at the rink, they’ll be at home so I’m definitely looking forward to that this year.”
With the first game, against Dundee Stars in pre-season, just a month away, it won’t be long before Jones and the rest of the team will be boarding flights to make their way to Glasgow.
The 27-year-old is determined to enjoy his home comforts before he says goodbye to his life in North America to return to ice hockey mode until next year.
“I’m counting the days and I’m not counting the days until we come back to action,” he said. “Of course, I can’t wait to get playing again and I am excited to get over.
“But the other side of me is enjoying the time at home and I’m making the most of the time I have left before I come back to Scotland by enjoying things I won’t get to do with family I won’t see for a few months.
“That side, I am looking forward to the new season. Jumping into camp with a whole new group, except for a few, hopefully the camaraderie will take us hot into the new season.”
Photos by Al Goold
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