CHL Mississippi RiverKings

RiverKings\' Goetz visits Greenbrook

May 24, 2005 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Mississippi RiverKings News Release


SOUTHAVEN—Memphis RiverKings defenseman Ken Goetz visited Greenbrook Elementary School in Southaven on Friday, May 20, where he talked with students in Beverly Williams' fifth-grade class and signed autographs.

Anyone who has ever watched Goetz on the ice has noticed his tendency to get into scuffles with members of the opposing team. The children had plenty of questions about fighting and injuries.

"My job is to protect my teammates," Goetz said. "And just like in school, when we get into fights, we get in trouble and have to go to the penalty box or face heavier consequences like getting fined. Of course, it's different in life because you can get sent to jail. We never fight off the ice. On the ice though, it's part of my job. It's part of what they pay me to do."

When asked what he liked best about hockey, Goetz included the opportunity to travel and take naps in the afternoons before games. "What I've liked the best though, is meeting a lot of great people and developing a lot of good friendships," Goetz said.

Other students asked him about loosing his teeth in fights, where he got his inspiration to play, how many goals he typically scores ("I'm not really paid to score goals, so if I do it's a big plus," Goetz said) and what the "A" on his shirt means (it stands for Assistant Captain).

Goetz also talked about working hard in school and in life.

"It's more important now to me to win and be the best because it's part of my job, and if I don't do that then I have to find another job," he said, smiling. "But I remember a time when I did not want to hear that from my parents and teachers. I think one of the big keys in life is to have fun at whatever you're attempting, and the other thing is to do the best you can. If you can honestly say at the end of the day or after a game that you did the best, that's what counts.

"Regardless of whether or not you like it, you need school. Whether you choose to believe that or not doesn't change that fact. It's important to try and learn so you can have a good life. You have to try and prepare yourself."

For more information on Memphis RiverKings or Memphis Xplorers appearances, call the Maddox Sports offices at 662.342.1755.



Central Hockey League Stories from May 24, 2005


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