Inferno Interview - Jesse Gimblett

Another Q+A interview done and we thought we would wait a while and let the new guy settle in before we talk to him but welcome Jesse Gimblett.

Jesse had a nice welcome to the Elite league in December with 3 games in 3 nights starting with his flight into Belfast where he scored the Devils only goal, home v the Braehead Clan on the Saturday then a road trip to Fife on the Sunday. Jesse flew into the Cardiff after not playing any part in the start of the new season with Bakersfield Condors as he was finishing his studies in Canada which prevent you from playing in a pro league so he took up a coaching job while at the University of Alberta.

Jesse began his career with a few season in the OHL teaming up with Devils NHL Lockout player Paul Bissonnette before spending four years at the University of Alberta and having stints in the AHL before spending a year and half with Bakersfield Condors before returning to finish his studies.

We talk to Jesse about his first weekend as a Devil, best and worse arena's he's played in and plans for the future.

Inferno - First off can we ask What attracted you to the Devils ? Had you heard much about the team and the City before you signed ?

Jesse Gimblett - The interest and professionalism the club showed from the beginning was positive.

Inferno - Before you signed in the UK, did you speak to anyone who had played in this league to help you make your decision?

Jesse Gimblett - Yes, they all spoke highly of the city of Cardiff and the support from the Devils fans.

Inferno - How and when did you get involved with hockey?

Jesse Gimblett - I started playing at the age of 4 after taking some lessons - like most kids in Canada.

Inferno - What do you consider the strongest part of your game and what one aspect if your game would you like to improve - and why ?

Jesse Gimblett - My ability to think the game and compete. I would like to improve my quickness because it is something I can always improve.

Inferno - How was that first weekend with the Devils ? 3 countries in 3 days must have been a bit of a shock to the system ?

Jesse Gimblett - It was a new experience that happened quickly - it took a few days for everything to sink in.

Inferno - How do you find the league to the ECHL? You stepped up to the AHL whilst in University, how did you find this step from the level you were at?

Jesse Gimblett - The leagues are comparable but the players are more matured and established in the EIHL. That was a bigger step because of the speed and detail at the American league level.

Inferno - We’ve spotted that your Brother plays hockey, would you like to team up with your brother in the future? Have you played together anywhere before ?

Jesse Gimblett - We've played together in a few different places in junior and pro. It would be nice to do again in the future.

Inferno - What's the best arena you've played in atmosphere wise and the complex itself and where’s the worst, we won’t be offended if you say the Big Blue Tent ?

Jesse Gimblett - Best arena - Clare Drake Arena, Worst arena - Sherwood Twins

Inferno - What’s been your best moment as a pro hockey player to date ?

Jesse Gimblett - First pro game stands out to me, some family made it down and it was great to enjoy it with them.

Inferno - You’ve got a day off, what are you doing? What’s the ideal day outside of “work”?

Jesse Gimblett - Go for a walk and maybe watch a movie at the theatre.

Inferno - Are you one for superstitions and rituals pre-game? If you are would you comfortable telling us what they might be?

Jesse Gimblett - Good meal and a nap.

Inferno - Have you made plans for when you hang your skates up?

Jesse Gimblett - Nothing yet, just looking to keep playing as long as there is a jersey hanging in my stall.

We’d like to thank Jesse for speaking to us and wish him all the best for the rest of the season.