Q&A With Jared Nightingale
1/30/2004 12:00:00 AM | Men's Ice Hockey
Jan. 30, 2004
Sophomore defenseman Jared Nightingale is one of the unsung heroes of the Michigan State hockey team. His gritty, stay-at-home style is a pillar of this season's defensive group. Nightingale has registered 1-8--9 points in 63 games in his two-year career. But, his numbers do not justify his impact on the Green and White's blueline.
1. Nickname:
Nighters
2. Hometown:
Cheboygan, Mich.
3. Birthday:
October 3, 1982
4. Major:
Parks and Recreation
5. Favorite NHL Team/Player:
Detroit Redwings/Chris Pronger
Jared attempts to play a game similar to the gritty St. Louis Blues defenseman.
6. When did you start playing hockey?
I was five. My two brothers already were playing so I followed them. We all started out playing outdoor hockey.
His oldest brother Jason played at Lake Superior State from 1998-2002. Adam, who is three-years older than Jared, is a junior on the Spartans this year.
7. Greatest hockey moment
Signing with Michigan State and playing my first college game.
8. Favorite Music/Bands
Matchbox 20
He is also a big country fan, Brooks and Dunn is his favorite group.
9. What is the best advice that was ever given to you?
"Forget what is behind, whether it is good or bad. Just focus on what is ahead and what you can control."
10. What is the greatest quality you admire in a hockey player?
Strong Character
11. What is your most memorable hockey moment at MSU so far?
Being in the locker room everyday with the guys. Every time I put my jersey on, it is pretty awesome.
12. Who was your greatest influence in deciding to play hockey and why?
I have always looked up to my brothers. We are also a strong Christian family and I feel like God gave me a gift so I play to the best of my ability.
13. My dream date would be with:
Jennifer Aniston
14. Favorite sport, other than hockey
Baseball, I'm a big Tigers fan.
15. How would you describe your style of play?
A stay at home, hack-and-whack defenseman.
16. Growing up when I played hockey, I would always pretend that I was:
Ken Daneyko
Daneyko played 1,283 career NHL games from 1983-2002, all with the New Jersey Devils.
17. My craziest ambition is to:
"Play in the IIHL"
The International Independent Hockey League is compiled of six teams in Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
18. What is the toughest team in the college hockey to play against?
Ohio State
Prior to a series sweep Jan. 23 and 24, Jared had yet to beat Ohio State in his college career.
