Fans voted in record numbers last week, ballots calling for the 5’10 Right Winger from Blenheim, Ontario, Brett Vandehogen.

“It’s an honor,” Vandehogen said when he found out he was voted for in record numbers, “I appreciate everything the fans have done, and continue to do for us. I hope that when they come to watch us play, our performance is indicative of their expectations.”

While playing at the University of Windsor, Vandehogen was awarded with the CIS (OUA West) Outstanding Student-Athlete (Randy Gregg Award) in 2013. His recognition landed him in the CHL, playing for the Brampton Beasts, where Head Coach Mark DeSantis described him as a “Character leader.”[1] On February 6th of this year, Brett joined the Surge. Finding his rhythm at the right time of the season, Vandehogen has scored two goals in his last three games, his physical presence on the ice, as big a factor as it has been all season long.

-----
“Hands down the best pogs player in the SPHL”
- Surge Center, Luke Lynes
-----

Vandehogen, also nicknamed, ‘Hogey’ or ‘Hoges’ told us about his pregame rituals. “I dress left to right, try and get a pregame nap in. I do have a lucky watch and lucky boxers.” After a brief pause Brett noted, “But they aren’t that lucky.” The 27 year old grew up on a pig farm in Ontario, and spoke about his the most powerful influences in his hockey career. “My brothers, who I really looked up to and my dad, who coached me for a lot of years.” In a serious moment from an otherwise relaxed Vandehogen, he says thanks, “I’ve had a lot of experiences that no one else will be able to have because of the sacrifices my parents have made for me.” Later, when we asked him what he couldn’t live without, Brett cited his family once again, saying, “My mom’s chocolate chip -cookies.”

-----
“He’s really impressed me with his work ethic. I’ve enjoyed getting to him the last few weeks, he’s a pretty funny guy, and he did finish up a power play that gave me an assist.”
-Surge Defenseman, Nicholas Kuqali
-----

Some random facts about Brett Vandehogen:
He admitted to a fear of heights, and likes seafood, especially crawfish. Plays slow pitch baseball in the summertime and enjoys golfing.  When he was a kid, Brett told us he would rip players off the tabletop hockey set he had, and would play with them by creating NHL scenarios. He is a self described “neat-freak” and told us he likes to keep things organized. “I have a specific spot in each drawer for my clothes, and my closet is arranged by season then occasion.”

-----
“He can golf a little bit.”
Surge Defenseman, Evan Zych
-----

What has been the most embarrassing hockey moment in your career? “Pretty much anytime I get a breakaway,” said Brett, inciting a roar of laughter from listeners close by.

If you could star in any movie, what would it be and which character would be you? “I would be Bane, from the Dark Knight Rises.”

Do you have any professional athlete inspirations? “Wendel Clark. First for his mustache and second for his play.”

What would you be doing if you weren’t playing hockey? “Teaching middle-school or high-school gym.” Vandehogen also told us that he would like to one day coach hockey at around the junior level.

What’s the most played song on your iPod? “I Don’t Know” by the Sheepdogs

What advice would you give to an aspiring hockey player? “Keep your stick on the ice.” – Red Green

-----
“Looks like a beach ball, hits like a wrecking ball.”
- Surge Left Wing, Jordan Peddle
-----

Fan Questions:

Polly asks: What is your favorite meal that your mother cooks, and will she share the recipe? “Her mash potatoes, they are unbelievable, and yes she will, I’ll get the recipe.”

Before exiting his interview, Brett told us his favorite hockey moments. “A shift against the RiverKings, where I went no bucket, and my first shift at the University of Winsor with Mark Thorburn.”

Tell us which player you want to know more about and what you want to know at http://goo.gl/LbL3tX or on facebook.com/gosurge! Don’t forget to tune in next week to learn more about your Surge players!

1-http://www.bramptonbeast.com/team/roster/?player_id=11