We recently caught up with former player, Nate Robson, to reflect on his time at UM-Flint and what the transition  to professional hockey has been like.  Over two seasons, Nate has played in 58 professional hockey games while tallying 17 points and 24 penalty minutes for the Port Huron Prowlers (FHL).

Looking back on your career with UM-Flint what helped you progress as a player most?

The players around me during my time at UM-Flint helped me progress a lot as a player. Every year we grew as a team and individually.  We were constantly pushing each other to be better on and off the ice. 

What part of being an UM-Flint hockey player do you miss the most?

Honestly just being around the guys.  From the start of class in the morning until hockey at night. The routine with the boys was special.

What is your most fond memory as a UM-Flint hockey player?

My favorite memory would be heading to Nationals as the last seed in the tournament and ending up in the championship game against Adrian College. It definitely was a Cinderella story.

What did you study during your time at UM-Flint?

Mass Media Communications

Did you have a favorite hangout spot on campus?

My favorite spot on campus had to be third floor of the UCEN or bottom floor in the library. I also enjoyed sitting right in front of Jilly’s pizza during lunch.

As you enter your third year of professional hockey, which areas of your game have changed the most when compared with your rookie season?

Starting as a rookie you take the ice you’re given and focus on not messing up and not getting scored on while you’re out there. Now as I’m looking into my third year I’m focused on scoring goals, being a threat on both sides of the puck and making confident plays. 

What did you struggle with as a Freshman at UM-Flint?  How did you overcome it by the time you were a Senior?

Just the struggle of trying to juggle being a full time student and playing hockey all while working. Now that I’m out of school things come easier because of the multitasking skills I learned during my time at UM-Flint. 

What are some of the things you do on a daily basis to be a consistent professional hockey player?

Eat healthy. Take the extra time to stretch. Stay after practices.  All of those little things add up.  I would tell all players to not do too much, just play the style of hockey you play, that’s why you’re there.  

Did you have the same determination, commitment and focus as a player at UM-Flint?

Definitely, if not more. Being selected out of a Free Agent Camp after my senior year in college was an eye opening experience for me.  Being in Port Huron has shown me what determination and focus with a little opportunity can do for a player.

If you could choose one thing, what is the best part of being a professional hockey player?

To be honest it’s the look on little kid’s faces at games.  Whether they are getting an autograph or a high five between periods and after the game, it’s special. You can see their eyes light up just like mine did when I was their age.  I’m hoping it inspires them to chase the same dream I had to play professional hockey. 

What advice would you give a current player perhaps playing High School, Travel or Junior hockey with aspirations to play at the collegiate level and someday professional? 

Effort and intensity is all you need to be successful at any level. Nothing is out of reach if you really want it just take advantage of the opportunity in front of you.