Dave: The defense really seems to be coming
together, after a rough start. What has been the key to the change?
Marc: It's no secret, the acquisition of Wilson and Rome helped
out a lot.
Dave: The Crunch always seem to struggle in the first month or two of the season. Why do you think that is?
Marc: I'd like to say that we've always started off rough because of the amount of movement between us and Columbus, but every team goes through that. My honest opinion is that we lacked good leadership. When Konopka came back, it totally changed our team's attitude.
Dave: What does this Crunch team need to do to stay in the playoff hunt?
Marc: We have to outwork our opponents.
Which isn't easy, especially nearing the end of the season, when guys are
battling injuries and fatigue. But it's something we have to do.
Dave:
A lot of fans think that is is just a matter of
time before you and rookie Kris Russell are swapped around and you will
finish out the season in Columbus. Do you think that scenario
will occur?
Marc: That's a great question. I have a hard time seeing that happening since we are both completely opposite D-men. But Columbus is absolutely where I wanna be.
Dave: What do you think of Russell? Is he the "next big thing", as many say?
Marc: I think Russell is a good offensive, puck moving defensemen.
Dave: Which other AHL defensemen (other than teammates) impress you?
Marc: The rookie from Binghamton Brian Lee impresses me, lots of confidence for his age.
Dave: Which AHL offensive player do you least like to see coming down the ice at you?
Marc: To be completely honest, there is nobody in this league one on one that makes me nervous.
Dave: What do you think of the new uniforms this season?
Marc: Love them.
Dave: It seems the rivalry with Rochester has cooled off over the last couple years. Who do you think is the top Crunch rival now?
Marc: I think the top crunch rival is Toronto right now. I could be wrong.
Dave: Comment briefly on the following people (answers in red)
a) Dan Smith - Mature, trustworthy, blocks 100 shots a game and in practice.
b) Vance Lederman - Energetic, funny, passionate.
c) Darcy Campbell - Very loyal, great team player
d) Brett Motherwell - Good puck moving d man.
e) Aaron Rome - Lots of confidence
f) Clay Wilson -
Good Skater
Dave: We've seen the hip check from you more this season. Is that something you worked on in the off season?
Marc: I've been using a fair bit this season, however it's not something you can work on by yourself. It took me a while to get the confidence to do it in a game.
Dave: How did you feel about Aaron Johnson leaving the organization?
Marc:
It's really too bad but part of the game. He was a great guy.
Dave: Have you been in regular contact with Ole? How does he like the "new" Blue Jackets under Hitch?
Marc: I talked Ole a little bit when I was in Columbus, and I'll see him Online every once in a while. But we usually won't talk hockey. I actually have no idea how he's doing up there. I don't pay attention to a team unless I'm playing for them.
Dave: The Post Standard did a story about your video game enjoyment. Which games are you playing these days?
Marc: Guitar Hero, Rock Band..lately I haven't been playing too much though.
Dave: Have you tried NHL 2008 with the AHL teams? If so, do they have your attributes correct, in your opinion?
Marc: Ha Ha. No It's funny because I waited so long to get onto that game, but for some reason I still haven't tried it.
Dave: How did you spend your Holidays? Did you get to do anything special in the short time you have off.
Marc: As short as our break was, I was fortunate enough to go home and visit my family in Ottawa, which is only 3 hours away. I had a great time with my buddies too.
Dave: You've been a regular when it comes to Crunch public player appearances over the years. Is it still something you enjoy doing?
Marc: Absolutely, whenever I get a chance. It's our responsibility as Pro Athletes to get involved with the community and our loyal fans.