CALGARY, AB – Tyson Roe is adjusting.
The Calgary Roughnecks rookie was added to the team’s practice roster prior to the season and is trying to get up to speed in the
“My transition to Calgary has been a little easier than my one to the NLL,” Roe said. “It’s a lot quicker than I’m used to. I played Senior-A in Nanaimo, but it’s still a lot quicker.”
After starting last year at Concordia University, he has yet to see any playing time in the 2015 regular season.
However, the Duncan, BC native got to see floor time when the Roughnecks hosted the Edmonton Rush for the first ever pre-season game at the Scotiabank Saddledome.
“I haven’t really got a chance to play except the half against Edmonton,” Roe said. “When I did play, playing offence was a lot different than what I’m used too because I’m more of a defensive, transition player. It was really nerve-wracking, so I was glad to get it over with but I really enjoyed it while it was happening.
“All of the nerves plus playing in front of 12,000 fans really steps it up, more than the 200 you’re used to in Nanaimo. It’s exciting.”
The 16th overall pick in the 2014 NLL Draft has had help in his development from Roughnecks coach Curt Malawsky.
He has provided the 6-foot-10 Roe with advice from early on to help him improve.
“From the second training camp, he came up to me and said, ‘You need to start reaching, use your reach’,” Roe said. “Obviously I’m a tall guy and have long arms so I need to start reaching around the goalie. It’s something I’m not used to, so I kind of have to think about more.”
With all of the differences between the NLL and college, Roe knows that Malawsky will be there to help him improve.
Already, Roe admits that he has taken strides.
“I know Curt’s watching everybody, wanting to see everybody improve and in my short time here, I think I have improved a little bit.” Roe said.
“If you do something wrong, he’s not afraid to let you know, tell you what you need to work on, what you need to improve on. He’s a great coach, he knows his stuff and we trust him to do the right thing.”
It was announced this past week that Malawsky signed a multi-year contract extension with the Calgary Roughnecks.
For Roe, having the consistent and exceptional coaching presence behind the bench for the next few years will only be a benefit.
He’s hoping that the team, along with Malawsky, will be able to get even better.
“It’s fantastic,” Roe said. “More chance to learn new stuff. He’s really knowledgeable. Taking them to the Finals last year, it’s a big step.
“Obviously they wanted to get the win instead of that loss in the extra overtime, but we all believe we can go for the championship this year, so hopefully we can get there.”
