Aeros defenseman Erik Reitz recently sat down and answered questions submitted by aeros.com users. Aeros.com is proud to present the latest aeros.com Q&A session.



Wendy from Deer Park

Q: I was just wondering what you do before a game to get ready? I also just want to say that watching you on the ice is cool to see all your energy and force out there. Keep up the great work.

ER: When I get to the rink, I tape my sticks. Then I have coffee after our meeting. I play soccer with the guys in a circle. Then I stretch by myself to get focused.



Melanie in Sugar Land

Q: When did you get your start playing hockey? What do you do in your spare time? Have you had any encounters with crazed fans here in Houston?

ER: I started playing when I was 9 ½. I like to play the guitar and take my dog for a walk in the park. He likes to play fetch. I haven’t had any bad encounters. Houston fans are the best.



Dominique from Houston

Q: Just curious as to (1) why you are routinely the first on and last off the ice during warm-ups, and (2) if there are any other pre- or post-game rituals that you do that we don't know about?

ER: It’s my routine. It’s just what I do and have always done. I like to do the same things every game, because it makes sure I’m always prepared.



Ann O

Q: What's the best thing about fans - what can they do to best support and encourage you and the team?

ER: I like it when they scream and yell my name. “Go Erik!” It’s good when they are loud after a big hit or a good save.



Mike

Q: Being a former player in the World Junior Championships for Team USA, did you have a chance to watch any of this year's tournament, and if so, what was your take on the event?

ER: I didn’t get a chance to watch it. When I was in the tournament, we went to Prague and it was an unbelievable experience. It was someplace I’d never been before. We went to both the Czech Republic and Switzerland. The hockey was good but there are a lot of different rules.



Krystina

Q: You have been one of my favorite players to watch for the past few seasons. It's been a pleasure to be able to see you grow and mature as a hockey player. I have a couple questions for you. What is your favorite part of living in Houston? Is there anyone on the team that you click really well with? I know last season in Matt Foy's q&a he said ya'll lived together...do you still live with him? Thanks so much for taking the time to do this! Now get out there and score a goal...We've been cheering you on...you're so close! (Note: Erik scored a goal this past Sunday).

ER: The warm weather is the best part. My car doesn’t get rusty from all the salt like my parents’ car does. I think I get along with everyone well. We have a really close-knit bunch. I don’t live with Foysee anymore. It was time for us to part ways (laughing).



Malia from Houston

Q: What team sparks the most rivalry w/ the Aeros this year? What are you focusing on this season the most as far as your skills/ growing as a hockey player?

ER: All the teams in the division are our rivals. Every time you play them, it’s a four-point swing. I’m trying to work on my whole game. You have to improve on everything.



Sharona from Baytown

Q: Hello Erik, how’s it going? What's your favorite food?

ER: It’s going good. Broccoli (laughs) is my favorite food. Sushi, but it’s a bit too expensive to have every day. I like sushi from Japaneros in Sugar Land.



The Newest FAN, Cheryl

Q: When you guys are out there playing ya’ll’s hearts out, can ya’ll hear us cheering? I was introduced to hockey just about 2 months ago and I can’t get enough.

ER: During the whistles we hear the fans mostly. When you’re out there playing, you try your hardest to focus and tone everything out. You’re not always playing at home. If you listen to what the opposing fans say it can get nasty.



Pat in Houston

Q: Just wondering where and what your teammates do after winning a game here in Houston to celebrate? Also what are your favorite things to do when you are not playing or practicing?

A: We usually go out and grab something to eat, sometimes as a team. Some of the guys have wives, and sometimes they come along. It all depends on what the schedule is. And I love playing the guitar.