Caps Briefing: Werner Ready for the Big Time
As the Capitals make international headlines by signing free agents, local hockey players and fans are just as interested in the future of D.C. native Stephen Werner. The first locally born player ever drafted to the NHL, Werner played with the Washington Little Capitals until he made the unlikely move to playing at UMass. Now, as he rises up through the minor league ranks, Werner's struggle to play a game from the Canadian tundra at the highest level represents, for so many in the area, our own impossible dreams.
These last couple weeks have been rough on us, as the Caps and Werner have not yet agreed on a contract for the coming season. Over the two years of his entry level contract, Werner made great strides in his development as a player and thoroughly adjusted to the professional game. We were lucky enough to catch up with him for a few quick questions about his story so far and his hopes for the future.
Growing up around D.C., what did it take to get noticed by and drafted to the National Hockey League?
For me, it took going to the National USA Hockey festivals and playing against the best players across the country to get noticed. I was fortunate enough to make the U.S. under 17 team, which allowed me to play internationally, and then at the collegiate level. I got drafted after my freshman year at UMass.
That was in 2003. No one from the D.C. area had ever been drafted before, and the Capitals picked you in the third round. How did it feel?
I was really excited. I wanted the Caps to draft me and I figured that I would be going in either the 3rd or the 4th round, so it was just perfect. That was one of the best days of my life.
It was also a great day for hockey in Washington. After four years as a college superstar, you joined the Hershey Bears. What were the biggest adjustments?
It is a much different game in the American League than in college. There is a lot more thinking and a lot less running around, so in a way it is simpler. The players are better and bigger, but I felt comfortable in my first couple games and thought I played pretty well.
Last year your offense really took off in Springfield. Is something different about the Falcons' system or are you just coming into your own?
I think that even before I went to Springfield, when I played a few games in Hershey I was getting my offense going. I just wanted to play a regular shift with good players, and once I got that chance I was able to score some goals and have some offensive success.
It's good to see. What do you hope to achieve this coming season?
I want to establish myself as a top player in the American League and give myself a chance to play some NHL games.