Oilersnation newest writer, Jason Strudwick, has signed a one-year contract to play with Sodertajle in Sweden. No truth to the rumour that he will be hosting hockey schools, but he’ll likely put on a clinic of off-the-glass-and-out passes. All kidding aside, he’s already on his way to Sweden, but before he left I had a chance to catch up with him about his recent signing.
JG: How long has this been in the works? Did you show them tape of your SO goal during negotiations to get more moola?
JS: We knew since early summer we wanted to head overseas. We couldn’t leave sooner because of our growing family. Obviously my SO goal is only one of many highlights during my career so far that got European gm’s hearts racing! Do I need to mention the overtime goal?
JG: You just did. Smooth. Did you negotiate that you wanted some PP time?
JS: I did but only in practice! I barely got PP time playing in the firemen’s league this winter to stay in shape, so I think I’ll have to show them my skills to get on the PP. I spoke with Tom Gilbert before I left and once I master my new grip, I’m sure I’ll be on the 2nd unit PP.
JG: Do you feel any pressure being their big free agent signing? Will you be more offensive?
JS: I have always been a big signing! I am looking forward to jumping in the play more in Sweden. It is a lot of fun to play on the bigger ice.
JG: What number do you plan on wearing and do you know any Swedish?
JS: I will be wearing my old number 34. I love that number! Yes I do know some Swedish, IKEA!
JG: Will you still have time to write on the Nation, or will there be too many autograph signing sessions?
JS: I will be writing on the Nation, I can’t stop now! I’ll still watch the Oiler games; the life of a pro hockey player isn’t that busy (laughs) and I’ll also update the readers on pro hockey in Sweden. I don’t think I will have to worry about too many autographs considering Sweden has given us Lidstrom and Zetterberg!
JG: Do you think you will be to Sweden similar to what Lidstrom has been to Canada?
JS: That may be a stretch! That would be similar to suggesting you are the Canadian Bob Costas!
JG: He has more patience than me, I would have knocked out Sandusky. Last time you went to Europe, when the season was over you returned to North America and signed with the Rangers. Will we see you make another return to the NHL?
JS: Getting the call from the Rangers was a surprise after Switzerland. I suppose anything is possible after this season as well. If we win the championship you never know and I will keep myself ready, but I won’t be holding my breath!
JG: Finally, I noticed you signed your usual one-year deal. Do you want to play more than one year, or will this be your final season of pro hockey?
JS: Right now I really want to enjoy this year. After the season I will decide about next year. I have played a long time and I feel satisfied. If this is the last time I get paid to play I’ll be satisfied. Maybe starting next year, I’ll have to pay to play in men’s league.
There you go Nation. I can guarantee no other Nation writer will be leaving their post to go play pro hockey in Europe. Wanye might try his luck cracking the International Unicycle Hockey team, but that’s about it.
**** My favourite part about the Canadian page on the website is how many players we have…Does anyone know one of the five??****
Canada
- Association de Monocycle de Quebec
- (from Quebec City, Quebec)
- c/o Jean-Sébastien Roy
- 1428 St-Luc,
- Ancienne-Lorette, Quebec G2E 1V3
- Canada
- phone: +1/418/872-1960
- (playing since: 1994, 5 players)
