Matt Jones: Why ice hockey?

Matt Towe: When I was a child my mother used to figure skate at the local ice rink and one day she decided to take me with her and that's when I started skating. I wanted to take it further so I tried ice hockey and eventually got the opportunity to go to a hockey school in Sheffield where I got on well with one of the squads.

MJ: Did you always know you wanted to be an ice hockey player?

MT: I played a lot of different sports when I was a child. I used to play football and I swam competitively but I really enjoyed ice hockey and decided that was what I wanted to do.

MJ: Can you describe what happens in ice hockey?

MT: It's very competitive and one of the most physical sports in the world. Two teams compete against each other and the winner is whoever scores the most goals. There are different styles of play - some teams may be fast and skilful and others may be very physical.

MJ: The fans obviously play a big part in getting you psyched up before a game but how do you use it to your benefit?

MT: Home games are definitely a benefit to the team because your fans can really get behind you. There are about 2000 people screaming for you, chanting and beating drums which can help put the other team under pressure so if they get behind you it is definitely a bonus.

MJ: What do you say to yourself before a game in order to increase your performance?

MT: Just before we start I'll go through what I have to do during the game whether it may be winning my face-offs or staying tight defensively. When I'm on the bench I like to talk to the guys to keep motivating them. For instance, after a shift we all say 'Well done' to each other which increases confidence and improves your game.

MJ: Has anybody ever given you any advice that will stay with you throughout your career?

MT: My parents have always been very supportive of whatever I've chosen to do and they've always told me that if I work hard at something I'll get my rewards.

MJ: How easy is it to get into ice hockey?

MT: In Cardiff we have a 'learn to play' programme so anyone can come along on a Wednesday or a Friday evening to skate and to learn the fundamentals of the game. During the sessions you get a certified coach along with two or three Devils players on the ice. Clubs around the country are running similar programmes so it's a lot easier to get into the sport now.

Some of the junior players that weren't enjoying it as much in the competitive league have switched over into the 'learn to play' programme because it's a lot more fun and rather than trying to make the squad straight away you've got this important stepping stone. It really is a good opportunity for anybody to get into ice hockey and it's all about the fun!

MJ: What qualities do you look for in a player?

MT: He has to fit into the team because it's important to have a good team bond. You can have the best team in the league but it means nothing if a guy comes in who doesn't really gel. He also has to be a leader so he can be stood up and accounted for and needs to work hard to give his all for the team.

MJ: On the international football stage, I'm used to having the game slowed down and you have to be very patient. Does that happen in ice hockey?

MT: It depends what sort of team you're playing against. The North American teams are well known for their aggressive style and big hits whereas the Norwegians and the Finnish teams play more of a free flowing game, a bit more of a skating game. It really depends on who you're playing against.

MJ: What's the key to a successful team?

MT: It's important for everyone to buy into the programme so that everybody's on the same page. Everybody should want to achieve and the team has really got to work hard so that whatever we put in we try and get out.

MJ: What sort of advice would you give to anyone who wants to be successful in sport?

MT: No matter what sport you choose to play you have to work hard at it. Without working hard, talent can only get you so far.