[Chris]

The Flyers Hive interview with Mike Richards

With the pressure of his team's performance surrounding him and this season's stretch run in full swing, Philadelphia Flyers center Mike Richards took some time to chat with me and answer a few questions posed by HIVE members this week.

The interview is short and sweet, I didn't want to take too much of his time, hopefully we'll get more opportunities in the future like this with Mike and other Flyers. I can see it happening, for sure.

What is the best piece of advice that you've received so far in your career?
I've gotten tons of pieces of advice during my career. Every coach I've had has told me just to never give up trying and that has always stuck.

Do you feel like there is additional pressure on you now that you're on board for the long haul with the team?
There is no pressure at all. I just go out there and play the game as hard as I can. I'm just happy that I'll be in a Flyers jersey for a long time to come.

Are there any specific teams or players you enjoy playing against?
I like playing the Penguins, it's a good rivalry.

What did you do differently this past summer that may have helped lead to this breakout season of yours?
I seem to be healthier than last season. Coach Stevens put me on the powerplay which has helped bring my point total up. I also feel alot more confident than I did last year.

What has been your best moment as a Flyer so far?
Defenitely my hat-trick against the New York Islanders (2/8/06).

If you could name one person that has influenced your career, who would it be?
Peter Deboer (Canada, Kitchener). He is always positive and a really great coach.

Last but certainly not least, where is your allegiance when it comes to the Philly cheesesteak?.
(Laughs) It's not really that great, I just like to enjoy them every once in a while.

This was a lot of fun to work on and I'd like to thank Mike personally for being so considerate and open to doing this for our community.

He told me he would check out the site, so who knows, maybe we'll have a new member in the not-so-distant future?

[Chris]

Once this slides off of the front-page, could someone with superpowers move it to my column? I just posted it in NEWS so it'd be visible via front page.

Thanks.

[MikeyB99]

yay

[dkcstealth]

Great interview. It is good to see that the fame is not going to his head.

[Drew]

Great interview, Chris. Thanks for this. If you're reading this Mike, howdy. I'm sure you remember me (votemikerichards.com).

[Jlg-28]

good interview, could have used a few more question,s but it is still good. hopefully we can get more interviews in the future

[shaunhagg1]

great interview there chris

[Blindside]

Mikey shows again why he's my favourite Flyer. Down to earth, loves the game and plays with so much heart. I had a feeling he'd say DeBoer for his favourite coach, he's very highly respected in hockey circles as a great teacher of the game.

[welshman]

cool interview

[Asha]

very cool guy