Ex-MSU star defenseman excels in NHL

The State News caught up with MSU alumnus and Colorado Avalanche defenseman John-Michael Liles this week. Liles was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award as a senior and the first two-time winner of the CCHA’s Best Offensive Defenseman Award.

The State News What are your plans for the summer?

John-Michael Liles I’m training but I’m not on the ice yet. I’ll probably get back onto the ice more towards the end of August. It’s important to slowly work back into it during the offseason.

SN You just signed a four-year contract with Colorado. How does that security feel?

JL It’s a pretty amazing feeling. Colorado is where I got my start and I’ve had a great five years here.

SN Since you went to high school and college in Michigan, do you catch any flack for playing for the rival Avalanche?

JL When I went to high school, everyone was such a Red Wings nut that it made me grow away from being a big Wings fan. That definitely helped and made it easier when I came to Colorado.

SN Your former coach, Ron Mason, retired from MSU. How did Mason affect your game?

JL Ron had a huge influence on my game. He brought me to MSU and gave me the opportunity to be successful as a young freshman.

SN How was competing in the 2006 Winter Olympics like?

JL It was something I’ll remember forever. We didn’t do as well as we’d hoped, but just being over there and seeing all the athletes … was really cool.

SN What’s your best memory from MSU?

JL I’d say it was when we made the Frozen Four my sophomore year. A lot of guys from that team have moved on and are now playing in the pros. I stay in touch with a lot of (them).

SN Your teammate, T.J. Hensick, went to Michigan. Do you guys have any weird bets or anything when MSU and U-M play?

JL We haven’t come up with anything yet, but I’m sure we’ll come up with a few things.

I’ll definitely be giving it to him as much as possible for being a Wolverine, and I’m sure he’ll be giving me the same back. Hopefully, the Spartans will win all the games.

Published on Wednesday, July 16, 2008