Name: Jackson Haag
Year: senior
Hometown: Hinsdale
When did you first start playing hockey?
When I was 5 years old. My mom took me to a learn-to-skate thing at Darien Sportsplex. I liked it a lot from the beginning. I tried other sports and that by far was my favorite one.
What do you enjoy most about the sport?
The team aspect is one really good thing about it. The combination of skating and then skill with the stick I like a lot.
How is it coming back after a COVID-shortened season?
Last year was good - we did the best we could - but it's nice to be able to experience a full season for my senior year.
Are you a stronger offensive or defensive player?
Overall, I'm a stronger player defensively - my combination of length and tallness (6' 2") and being able to go side to side quickly and having a good stick.
How have you improved since your sophomore year?
I'd say my offensive game has gotten better since sophomore year. I'm able to bring the puck up the ice more and create offensive chances and just (have) more confidence offensively.
What is the best advice you've gotten from a coach?
If I were talking strategy, to stay between the puck and the net. That's a generic one, but I keep it in the back of my head all the time when I'm playing.
What is your goal for the season?
As a team, I'd say we want to win our conference. That's probably the main goal. (Individually to) make the All-State team.
What are your plans for next year?
My top option right now is probably University of Indiana.
Will you keep playing?
(That's) something I have to think about.
What is at the top of your Christmas wish list?
I'd have to say clothes for working out, because I go work out at the gym a lot and I need more clothes for that.
Why does coach Jim Swoyer like having Haag on the team?
He's a very quiet leader. His leadership is more demonstrated on the ice, and he can take over the game defensively and offensively and he's just a huge contributor to the team's success.
- profile by Pamela Lannom, photo by Jim Slonoff
