NAME: Mandy Slezak

SCHOOL: California University of Pennsylvania

HOMETOWN: Johnstown, PA

YEAR: Junior

POSITION: Defense

Q: What is the single best thing about playing college hockey for your current CHE team?
A: I love being able to represent my school while playing a sport I love. There’s no better feeling than being able to represent my school on the ice.

Q: What is the most-memorable hockey game you have ever been involved in, at any level?
A: My most-memorable hockey game would be my first-ever college hockey game. It was a surreal experience.  It was my first game being able to play at a collegiate level and be a part of a team at such a competitive level.

Q: Are there any routines or rituals you must stick to before every game, such as listening to a certain song?
A: I don't really have any rituals. I just tend to stretch on my own by the rink itself before the game. I also always am the second on the ice, following my goalie, before every game.

Q: Which opposing CHE team do you really enjoy playing against, and why?
A: I enjoy playing against West Chester because it's a very competitive and fast-paced game. We also are very equal in competition, so it’s always a good game.

Q: If you were put in charge of the entire sport of hockey and could change just one thing about the game, what would it be?
A: I would make overtime be 3-on-3 like the NHL. I feel it's far more competitive in a 3-on-3, and the skill level would be increased.

Q: What made you choose to attend your current school?
A: The hockey program was major reason I came to Cal U, along with the campus. I thought the campus was absolutely gorgeous.

Q: What is your major and what do you want to do with it after graduation?
A: My major is Criminal Justice with a minor in Pre-Law, and I plan on attending law school after graduation.

Q: What person outside of your family has done the most for you?
A: All of my coaches have individually done the most for me. They pushed me to be better and to keep trying, even when I didn’t feel like I could continue anymore. They made me the player that I am.

Q: Would you rather be Superman or Batman, and why?
A: Batman because the Batmobile is awesome and so is his mansion! Also his suit is pretty cool.

Q: What are your two favorite apps on your smartphone, and why?
A: Instagram and Twitter. I just like being able to see people who I’ve lost contact with, be able to see how they are doing, and reach out to them.