Inferno Interview - Carl Hudson

Prior to turning professional, Hudson attended Canisius College where he played four seasons with the Canisius Golden Griffins men's ice hockey team which competes in NCAA's Division I in the Atlantic Hockey conference.

On July 9, 2010, Hudson was signed as a free agent by the Florida Panthers to an entry level contract.

Starting with the 2011-12 season, Hudson played two seasons in Germany with the ESV Kaufbeuren of the 2nd Bundesliga (ice hockey). He joined Pingouins de Morzine-Avoriaz of the French Ligue Magnus prior to the start of the 2013-14 season becoming the league's highest scoring Defenceman on 8 goals for 25 points in total.

The Inferno caught up with Carl ahead of his first season in a Devils jersey.

The-Inferno - How and when did you get involved in Ice Hockey?

Carl Hudson - I got started in hockey probably not long after I was able to walk. My dad would always make an outdoor rink for me and my friends to play on.

The-Inferno - You were called straight up to the AHL from College, how amazing was that for you?

Carl Hudson - It was really nice to be able to see right away what professional hockey is all about. That is also the where me and Andrew Lord met.

The-Inferno - What attracted you to the UK? Did you know much about the league and UK Hockey in general before you were approached by the Devils?

Carl Hudson - I do not know too much about the league or style of play, but I have visited the UK in the past and had a great time there.

The-Inferno - Have you had a chance to look at the league and the rivalries that the Devils have in the Elite League as yet ? If so do you have any thoughts?

Carl Hudson - I haven't got a chance to know any of those things yet, but i'm sure that once I get to Cardiff I will be filled in with all that information.

The-Inferno - You've played against Andrew Lord before over in Germany, is it going to be more enjoyable playing on his team?

Carl Hudson - Yes it will, as i said earlier we also played together for a short time in Rochester and against each other in Germany. But I can say that it is much more enjoyable to have him on your side.

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

Carl Hudson - I am a player who likes to work hard and play hard every night. Also I play every game to win because there is no better feeling.

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?

Carl Hudson - I heard that it is an older rink but that the atmosphere is one of the best, so i'm really looking forward to that. And I found out about the new rink after signing.

The-Inferno - We like to ask players if they have set themselves goals for the season to come and what expectations they have of their own and the team’s performance. Have you set yourself any goals for the season?

Carl Hudson - My personal goals for every season are the same. That is to make sure that I am doing what I can every day to improve my game and help the team win to the best of my abilities. As for team goals, I think if you ask any of my teammates they will all say that our goal is to win every cup.

The-Inferno - On the press release from the club for your signing it was mentioned you've got a "bomb of a shot"! Should they be getting replacement Plexiglas ready?

Carl Hudson - Haha, I would hope not since I try shooting the puck on net!

The-Inferno - Can you tell us what your proudest achievement to date as a pro hockey player?

Carl Hudson - I don't think I have one specific achievement that stands out since I haven't won any championships yet, but I would have to say that I am proud that i've got to play the sport I love for some years now and hope to continue for a while longer.

The-Inferno - The BBT has the fans sitting quite high above the ice and it really does rock when the fans see an opposition player turned over. What's the best venue you've played in so far?

Carl Hudson - In college we had a rivalry against RIT and their fans where crazy loud so it was always fun to play there. Also there were many places in Germany that had really good atmospheres. I'm hoping the BBT will top all of them.

The-Inferno - What do you consider the strongest part of your game and what 1 thing would you improve - and why?

Carl Hudson - I think the strongest part of my game would be the power play. As for improving, there isn't really just one specific area but rather all areas can always be improved.

The-Inferno - Anything else you would like to add?

Carl Hudson - Just want to say that I look forward for the season to start and hope that we can make Devil fans proud.
Thank you