February 17, 2006

Vincent Montalbano
HockeyDraft411 Prospects

Alex Biega: My mother got me into hockey at first, and the first time I stepped on the ice I remembered I loved it. I started to play organized hockey at the age of six or seven.

McKeen's: Describe the type of game you play. What are your strengths? Weaknesses?

Alex Biega: If I had to describe my game I would have to say that I am an offensive defenseman who likes to get involved in the play, and quarterback the play. I love playing physical and being as aggressive as I can.

McKeen's: What would you say is the most underrated facet to your game?

Alex Biega: I think it would be never making a mistake and never being beat.

McKeen's: Which NHL player do you model your game after and why?

Alex Biega: The player I think I would model best under is Francis Bouillon from the Montreal Canadians. He might not be the biggest player but he is willing to do anything to win.

McKeen's: Who are the five most talented players you've played against and what specifically do you admire about their styles?

Alex Biega: This is a tough question but I would give credit to an '87 Derick Brassard - I love the poise he has with the puck, and how smart he is with it also his hands are something else. Pierre-Marc Bouchard who now plays for the Minnesota Wild. His sense around the net and smartness is remarkable. Matthew Lombardi who has lighting speed.

McKeen's: You're in the first year as captain. How does the role suit you? Do you like to lead by example or are you more of a vocal player in the locker room?

Alex Biega: Growing up I always had the privilege of being a captain and always loved being one. I love talking in the room and motivating people on and off the ice. I like being both vocal and leading on the ice.

McKeen's: Describe your decision process in choosing not to play for Saint John of the QMJHL and instead returning to Salisbury.

Alex Biega: I was originally drafted first round to the Oceanic of Rimouski and was a difficult decision that I had to make. I could have played with Sidney Crosby and had more of a difficult schedule. But I choose to go to Salisbury because I absolutely fell in love with the place. For me going to college seemed like the best possible step to going to the NHL, because I have two years at Salisbury plus another four at college which makes six years if I need it of development compared to four in Juniors. I wouldn't change my decision for anything.

McKeen's: Describe your experience playing for the Quebec U-17 team in2004.

Alex Biega: It was a remarkable experience, and had the luxury of being one of the captains for the team. Unfortunately, I suffered a small injury that kept me out of the tournament after the second game, but just being part of a team representing my province was something I cherished. Having a chance to play against other countries in such a large crowd was a lot of fun.

McKeen's: The NHL Entry Draft will be coming up for you this year. Are you thinking about it at all?

Alex Biega: I try not to think about it, but it's always in the air.

McKeen's: If you were drafted, what team would be your preference?

Alex Biega: I wouldn't care what team I got drafted to.

McKeen's: What do you focus on during off-season training?

Alex Biega: I try not to go on the ice that often and focus on off ice training. I'm fortunate to train with a great trainer 6 days a week. Every summer there is something I want to improve so I spend and put in extra time on that area.

McKeen's: What was it like to play against the Women's USA Olympic Team?

Alex Biega: It was a great experience. I didn't know what to expect at first to be honest, but the atmosphere was great and fun to play in.

McKeen's: What were your expectations coming into the season?

Alex Biega: My expectation is to win a New England Championship, Flood-Marr championship and the season.

McKeen's: Which areas do you consider you have to improve to succeed in the next level in college and further?

Alex Biega: I think I just have to continue to gain speed and keep getting bigger.

McKeen's: What are some of the colleges you are interested in?

Alex Biega: Harvard, Cornell, BC, BU, UNH, U of Maine, and UVM.