Virden Oil Capitals’ Parker Brakebill hails from Yorba Linda, California. Yorba Linda? With a hometown name like that we just had to find out a bit more about the pride and joy from Yorba Linda.
Below is our Q&A with Parker.
Q: Where is Yorba Linda, Calif?
A: Yorba Linda is located in Orange County, Southern California, about 10 miles from Anaheim.
Q: How does one end up growing up there and playing hockey in Virden?
A: I started off playing roller hockey at the age of 8. I later transferred over to ice hockey at the age of 12. While playing for the Jr. Ducks midget AAA team last year, I was scouted by Virden at a Showcase and ended up coming up in the spring during the MJHL finals. I immediately fell in love with the atmosphere here and made it my goal to play for Virden the following year.
Q: If you weren’t playing hockey, what sport would you be playing?
A: I really couldn’t imagine playing any sport other than hockey. However if I had to choose, it would be golf as it’s my favourite summer activity.
Q: Most famous celebrity you’ve ever met/bumped into?
A: The most famous celebrity I have ever met was probably Gene Simmons from the band KISS.
Q: Favourite NHL hockey player?
A: Ryan Kessler (Anaheim Ducks)
Q: Best celebration song in the NHL?
A: Chicago Blackhawks play the song Chelsea Dagger
Q: Describe your game.
A: For my whole life I have always considered myself a two way shut down centerman with good penalty killing abilities. However, since coming to Virden, my game has changed in that I am now a winger that can bring lots of energy on the ice in both zones, always finishing hits and getting pucks deep. I am also not afraid to shoot the puck and get it on net as much as possible.
Q: Who is the toughest player to play against in the MJHL?
A: For me, I’d say the toughest player to play against in the MJHL is Matthew Osadick on Swan Valley. His speed is exceptional and he is a smart player who knows how to play the game well
Q: What’s your typical pre-game meal?
A: Teriyaki chicken and white rice
Q: What’s your favourite non game-day meal?
A: Filet mignon with rice and potatoes
Q: Apple or Android?
A: Apple for sure.
Q: Biggest adjustment from the USA versus Canada (besides the weather!)
A: I would say the biggest adjustment for me, is the size of the town. Things are a lot calmer here and people aren’t always in a rush to get places. It’s a nice change of pace though and I have grown to like it very much.
Q: Should coaches ban Fortnight?
A: Although I don’t personally play Fortnight or any video games, I don’t believe coaches should ban it because it gives the guys a way to connect with each other off the ice and away from the rink.
Q: Five years from now I hope to be …
A: Graduating from college while playing hockey and earning a business degree in Project Development.
