Feature Story
Tardy working to become complete player
By Todd Gottula
Tri-City Storm
Forgive Max Tardy for not buying into the
suggestion that first-year players in the United States Hockey League can’t be
playmakers.
“I don’t necessarily see myself as always
being the go-to guy, but I’m always out there looking to score and make things
happen,” says the Tri-City Storm forward. “I expect that of myself every night
out.”
Through 19 games, Tardy is tied for third
on the team with 12 points, including five goals. After a fast start that
included seven points in the Storm’s first nine games, the 6-foot, 180-pound
native of
“The game is so much faster at this level
than high school. You have to make quick decisions and be more prepared
mentally and physically,” Tardy says. “It’s taken me some time to learn what
works and doesn’t work.”
Tardy came to the Storm following a
storied prep career at Duluth East High School, where he scored 28 goals and 48
points his senior season on his way to being named a finalist for the
prestigious 2009 Minnesota Mr. Hockey Award. He was also named the 2009 Duluth
News Tribune Player of the Year.
“In high school, I was a playmaker. I
went out there every game with the expectation of being the guy who would make
things happen,” says Tardy.
Despite being a first-year player in the
USHL, Tardy says his role with the Storm is similar to his high school playing
days. “I have to bring a strong work ethic and good effort every game, and that
includes doing all the little things,” he says. “Beyond that, I’m someone who has
to contribute on the scoreboard.”
Tardy has already committed to play his
college hockey at the
Storm Head Coach Drew Schoneck
says he would like to see Tardy work at being more consistent.
“We are going to count on him for offense
because he’s a competitive guy who can skate and put the puck in the net,” Schoneck says.
“He’s already proven that he’s up to the
challenge of playing in this league. At the same time, I want to see increased
intensity and consistency from him,” adds Schoneck.
“He can’t be great one night and just okay the next.”
Tardy said he’s working at becoming a
more complete player by developing his skills on defense.
“As you move up levels and play against
stronger competition, you have to focus more on being a good player on both
sides of the puck,” he says. “I know I have to get better defensively. I know
what is expected of me, and I’m excited about this season and doing what I can
to help the team have success.”
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