Catching Up With Julian Smith
Hey Julian! The season has moved on a lot since we last spoke and Chelmsford find themselves sat at the top of the table. What has been the secret of your success?
I think the main secret to the Chieftains success so far has been from two things, a lot of depth in the squad and a well-structured system and game plan. At the start of the season we had a lot of injuries and we were able to keep getting the results we needed which has put us at the top now.
Chelmsford seem to have found a really good balance in the squad, with a good mix of younger lads and experienced NIHL players, who among your teammates has stood out for you?
Yer, the Chieftains have got a great balance of players with a lot of experience in different leagues. Stand out players would be Ross Brears; he's playing with confidence and getting big goals. I've been really impressed with Volrab. He's cool and calm on the puck and showing to be one of the top imports in league. Finally John Connelly and Luke Brittle have been great. Both great plays with a good future, Luke just needs to sort out his hair style and choice of shoes for home games!!
One thing I’ve noticed about the Chieftains is that your imports seem to fit really well into the team. Volrab particularly seems to just quietly go about his business not being too flashy but coming up with the important points. Just how important is it for these guys to settle in?
Volrab has settled in well and is showing his worth with big goals and point when we need them. It is always tough settling into a new team and I imagine a lot harder as an import. I think it's helped having Tibor in the room for him too as they can chatter there jibber jabber in their home language.
Chelmsford already had probably the best goalie tandem in the league and even with Ryan Bainborough taking some time away you’ve not dipped in quality. How is Euan King gelling with the rest of the lads?
Yer we started with a very strong pair of goalies and I think bringing Kinger in to replace Ryan has made it an even stronger pair. It was a great shame for Ryan to retire but hopefully the break will give him time to miss and love the game again.
Kinger has settled in with the guys easily, he has had a season in Chelmsford before so will know the guys already. And as a fellow Peterborough junior it's nice to have him in the team.
Looking around the league, who has impressed you this season so far?
The league has improved again this year and has some very strong teams. Invicta are proving to be a force and playing well. A few players spring to mind, even with such a busy personal life juggling busy jobs of dolphin shaving and caring for people in the community Ryan Giles still manages to play well. And Huska is still playing like a 25 year old even at the age of 38.
Last question from us… its Olympics time, which nation will win the gold?
Finally I think that the gold medal will go to the Canadians. (Great prediction there from Jules… we were picking Sweden).
Big thanks to Julian for answering our questions. You can keep up with the team throughout the season at @ChelmChieftains and Julian himself at @j_smith26.
Pictures courtesy of Nicky Craft.
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