Junior Sport Communications Major, Owen McFarland, discusses his hockey background, challenges of the game, what hockey has taught him, and more.
The Winger from Frederick Maryland started skating in sixth grade after his Uncle took him to his first game. He explains that he began relatively late, however the two of them were close and his Uncle had been skating for quite some time. "I started learning how to play after that game." McFarland explains, "I had been rollerblading and playing street hockey before."
McFarland credits his interest and success to his Uncle as he has been his inspiration on and off of the ice. However, McFarland hasn't been without struggle, especially as a player who started later than what may be considered normal in the world of hockey. "A challenge was starting so late and having people around that started earlier and comparing yourself to them." McFarland says, "Then having to try and keep yourself mentally in the game."
However, the 21-year-old has managed to maintain a positive attitude over the course of his career. He brings a certain light and is known for the nickname "Giggles" given to him by his RMU team because of his constant smiling and laughing. He mentions that at times, he finds it difficult to know how to talk to people and resorts to a kind smile or a generous laugh. And a smile isn't the only thing McFarland maintains. He also maintains his honesty and tells it like it is. When asked what hockey has taught him, he had nothing to hide. "I've learned to work hard and about the people you meet." McFarland says, "You learn to get along with everyone, to include everyone, and how to deal with people you don't like very well…you learn how to work with them on a team."
As far as his time spent at RMU, he explains that he's enjoyed it. He's always liked the city because of the Pittsburgh Penguins and enjoys being close to his girlfriend who is currently enrolled at Duquesne University. "I love it here. I've always liked Pittsburgh." McFarland says with a smile, "I used to come to Pittsburgh for Penguins games and always liked it."
After winning the CHE championship game last year, McFarland is excited and ready to take on more at RMU. "All three teams have gotten better, so there's a pretty good chance we can repeat it and go back to back, which is exciting." McFarland is looking forward to the games to come and hopes to bring home another win.
The CHE RMU Men's D4 club team takes on The College of Wooster and Duquesne University December 1st and 2nd at home at the RMU Island Sports Center.
Stay tuned for all things RMU Club Sports and stream live home games on YouTube @rmucampusrec
https://youtube.com/live/5-zb9_ooACI
