SEASON REFLECTIONS: RYAN CULKIN

Q: Overall how do you feel the season went?

A: Overall, I feel that we had a pretty successful season. I think we were really pushing hard to get into playoffs. I think we had a very successful season, way better than last year, but we can definitely improve as well.

Q: What was your favorite moment during this season?

A: I really enjoy all of those fancy promotional jersey nights! We wore [Hulk] one time and the Ninja Turtles. I enjoy those as a play because it’s different and you never get to do that in any other league, so those are pretty special! The road trips with the guys as well, it’s nice being on the road with them and hanging out with everybody. It was very fun for me. I think our team was a very close-knit group, very tight, no cliques, and everyone was friends with everyone, which you notice with the way we play. Everybody is a great teammate and great friend off the ice as well.

Q: What was your favorite promotional night?

A: The throwback Mariners jerseys, the orange and white one and then the Team USA ones. I wish I got to wear those because those were fire.

Q: Which of your teammates were you most impressed with?

A: There are two in particular: Terrence Wallin and Dillan Fox. Every night they were our best two players, best two forwards. Just where they came from, both of them spending some time in the SPHL, which to me is baffling because they never belonged in the SPHL. They are better than some American Hockey League players. Those two have impressed me for the past two years. 

Q: Did you meet any of your personal goals? If yes, what were they?

A: My goal with the Mariners was to make the playoffs and not to be the fourth seed, but to have home ice advantage in the first round. I think we were capable of obtaining that goal. Ultimately that was our biggest goal, and I think we were able to do that.

Q: Is there anything you would like to say to the fan base?

A: We appreciate all of the support. Every game that you guys came out, we really wanted to put on a show for them. It’s unfortunate the way the season ended. Ultimately, I do think it’s for the best, the health of the players, the health of the fans. I hope they’re home staying safe. We were giving a huge push this year and. Hopefully we’ll see them next year.