Last Updated on Sunday, 27 May 2012 18:31
By Andrew Vitalis
(Editor’s note: For each edition of Let’s Play Hockey in the 2008-09 season, contributing writer Andrew Vitalis will be catching up with a Minnesota-grown current or former minor league hockey player.)
It took him about one nanosecond to respond. When asked what his expectations are for the season, Gino Guyer didn’t mince words.
“Everyone is trying to make it to the highest level, I’m not any different,” remarked Guyer, a 2003 fifth round draft choice of the Dallas Stars. “That’s been my goal since I was a kid. Playing in the minors, you’re certainly not doing it for the paycheck. I just hope to get noticed. Hopefully I can keep moving up.”
Don’t bet against him. There have been periods throughout Guyer’s career where critics have done just that, and lost. For instance, when the former Gopher tore his ACL during the 2006-07 season, some weren’t sure how Guyer would recover, or if we would.
“My injury was the low point,” stated Guyer. “I was devastated.”
But Guyer himself knew it was only a matter of time before he worked his way back onto the ice. And time he had. His rehab took more than one year.
“I got off to a great start (before the injury),” remembered Guyer. “I realized that all I could really do at that point was work on rehab. I also decided to really try and work on the mental aspect of the game. I watched a lot of film and I paid more attention to the games when I was in the stands watching. I figured if I couldn’t play, I had to do something to improve my game.”
And that comment defines Guyer in a nutshell. During rehab, Guyer didn’t waste time complaining, instead, he re-dedicated himself to becoming a student of hockey, filling his time by learning more about the ins and outs of the modern day game. Slowly, his knee began to heal.
“It takes baby steps everyday,” commented Guyer. “I remember when I couldn’t even bend my knee. Everyday, I got to bend it a little more and a little more. Now, my knee is strong, if not stronger than it originally was. It’s been almost two years now since my knee surgery. Last year I wore a knee brace, I think it was more of a mental thing. This season, I haven’t worn it once.”
In other words, he’s back. Now a member of the Phoenix Roadrunners of the ECHL (a San Jose Sharks affiliate), Guyer has found his way back into familiar territory, back in front of the net and back on the score sheet. The Coleraine Minn., native finished last season by scoring 39 points in 49 games. This year, although the regular season has just begun, there’s no reason to think anything will be any different in 2008-09.
“Last year, once I got going, I averaged almost one point per game. I feel with enough playing time, I hope I can stay around that average,” remarked Guyer.
Not surprising. Offense has always been apart of Guyer’s game. Dating back to his time with the University of Minnesota, theGreenway High School grad tallied 29 or more points in three of his four seasons.
After turning pro, Guyer posted five points in just six games with the Alaska Aces before hurting his knee. Known for his soft hands and hockey IQ, Guyer is proud of his ability to light the lamp. However, he’s also quick to point out that other aspects of his game are also on the rise. Specifically, Guyer has worked hard on the defensive side of the puck. If that’s what it takes to make it to the next level, that’s what he’s going to do.
“There is no question, this level is about not making mistakes, making smart plays,” remarked Guyer. “You have to pay attention and do the little things, be positionally sound, block shots, finish your checks. I think I’ve improved the most at finishing my checks and playing the body. I’ve worked on my overall game. You need players who can score but you also need role players. Whatever it takes.”
Whatever it takes to achieve his dream.
“I’ve always set goals for myself, I’ve always set them higher than people would expect me to,” said Guyer. “I’m my worst critic. Like they say, shoot for the moon, set your sights for the stars. That’s the mindset I’ve always had, that and just have fun. I was taught from a young age that hockey is supposed to be fun. It’s just a game. I think that’s what people need to remember. It’s just a game and if you’re not having fun, it’s not worth it.”
