Inferno Interview - Andrew Conboy

We’re back speaking to another of the new signings and this time we’ve managed to speak to 6'3 190 LBS Left Wing Andrew Conboy.
A 5th round pick in the 2007 Draft by the Montreal Candiens, Conboy spent 4 seasons with their affiliate team Hamilton Bulldogs before an injury set him back as a he was looking close to a call up.

Conboy from Burnsville Minnesota signs with the Devils after a year in the ECHL where he split his time between Trenton and Cincinatti.

We talk to Conboy about what he sees his role on the team being, his future plans and why he decided to come to the UK and play hockey for the Devils.

The Inferno- Can you tell us what attracted you to the UK and in particular the Devils? What players did you speak to ahead of your move?

Andrew Conboy - It all started last season with the NHL lockout. My brother and I both had talked about heading overseas, he went to Ingolstadt in the DEL, and I decided to stick it out in North America for another shot in the AHL. At about Christmas time is where I started really had major thoughts of heading over. I called my brother and he put some feelers out for me. It kinda all started rolling from my brother Tim, to Craig Weller who I believe contacted Neil Francis for me. Craig said great things about the experience playing in Cardiff and the city, and from then on Neil and I have been in contact.

The Inferno- Have you visited the United Kingdom before, or will next season be your first visit to the UK and more importantly Wales?

Andrew Conboy - I have been to the UK, as a member of the Hamilton Bulldogs in 2010. We travelled to Edinburgh, Scotland and played exhibition games against Belfast and Edinburgh. Wales will be a new experience for me, I'm looking forward to the season, as well as to get a feel for the culture and this Welsh language I've heard about!

The Inferno- We understand that you spoke to Craig Weller about his time with the Devils, did he tell you about the experience of playing in the BBT or anything about the home fans?

Andrew Conboy - We spoke through my brother mostly, I know he said that Cardiff is the best place to play in the EIHL and the fans we're by far the best!

The Inferno- Can you give us an insight into what Devils fans can expect from yourself?

Andrew Conboy - Devils fans can expect someone with an aggressive and passionate playing style. I love to stick up for my team mates, and put up points when I have the opportunity. Off the ice I'm an easygoing and easy to get along with person, if anyone see's me out and about don't be bashful give me a shout. Also I'm an outdoors guy, mainly fishing, which my girlfriend and I have been lucky enough to do a tremendous amount of this summer!

The Inferno- The club linked to a video when your signing was announced (http://t.co/y34EVs8Tdn) , have you been warned about some of our more to put it delicately “useless” officials yet?

Andrew Conboy - I have that feeling about a lot of officials, everywhere. I saw the video and love it, gives me adrenaline about the season and gave me a sense of the fans liking for my style of game.

The Inferno- Was the reaction to the news of your signing from the Devils fans on twitter a surprise?

Andrew Conboy - YES! I felt so welcomed after the amount of twitter love and followers I got. Thanks #RedArmy

The Inferno- There seems to be a lot of tough players being signed for the upcoming season around the league, is there anyone you know already over here? Anyone you need to get reacquainted with?

Andrew Conboy - I think I saw Kevin Harvey and Brent Henley signed in the EIHL, we have had acquaintances in the past. Seems like a tough league and a good fit for me.

The Inferno- We know you like to drop the gloves, is this something you look to do on a regular basis or is it more of the right time when it's needed? Is it true you fought your brother a while back during a game?

Andrew Conboy - More of a right time when needed, when I feel like is a lot I guess. I have to be in the right mind-set and have a reason for fighting. This is a rumour, I have never fought in a game on the ice against my brother, only him beating up on me when we we're kids. We've played against each other once professionally.

The Inferno- You were a regular with the Bulldogs before your injury; do you see your move to the UK as a rebuild season with the possibility of potentially getting back to AHL level?

Andrew Conboy - Obviously I like to keep an open mind about where I'm going in the future and still think I can play at that level, but right now I'm thinking about working hard this season in Cardiff and helping the Devils win games.

The Inferno- What have you been told about the Big Blue Tent (The rink we currently have)? Was the proposed new venue an incentive to signing for the Devils?

Andrew Conboy - I haven't seen the rink, but I have heard its a great experience and am looking forward to playing my first game there.

The Inferno- Who’s the best forward you've played with and why? Also, best D man you've came up against?

Andrew Conboy - The best forward I played against was Tyler Seguin, just his speed and mobility was fun to watch that close. Probably the best defensemen was Erik Karlsson, his stats speak for themselves.

The Inferno- What’s the Best arena you've played in for atmosphere?

Andrew Conboy - Belle Centre in Montreal, most amazing atmosphere I've had the opportunity to play in. And best hot dogs.

The Inferno- Have you got any plans for when you hang the skates up?

Andrew Conboy - Would like to stay with the game of hockey whether its coaching or starting camps back home. It's been good to me so far and I love the game so hopefully a long healthy career in the game as a player or coach.

The Inferno- Anything else you would like to add?

Andrew Conboy - I have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to be a Cardiff Devil, and will make the most of it every day I wear the sweater. Excited to see the city, meet the fans and win games.

We’d like to thank Andrew for taking the time to speak to us and look forward to seeing him on the Ice at the end of the month.