Inside the Ottawa Charge — Q&A with Mannon McMahon

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Q&A

Q: Could you take us through your hockey journey? Who or what first got you into playing hockey?

“It was really random — no one in my family played hockey. When I was in elementary school, a lot of my friends played, and I just wanted to fit in and be like them. Right away, I absolutely loved it.”

Q: Who were some of your biggest influences or role models growing up?

“I was fortunate to have a lot of female role models. My biggest one was Winny Brodt-Brown. She’s a pioneer in Minnesota women’s hockey and helped organize a group of us to play together. She played in the Olympics and for the Gophers, and she had so much hockey knowledge. It was really nice to have her to look up to.”

Q: What was the biggest adjustment going from college hockey to the professional level?

“The speed of the game. I feel like I’m a player who relies on my teammates a lot and, here, everybody is fast. So, just being able to make quicker plays and react faster has been the biggest adjustment.”

Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your college career?

“Oh, that’s so hard! I loved my college experience, every single year was different. But I think my junior year, when we played in the national championship, was probably the coolest experience. Being in the Frozen Four was just incredible.”

Q: What’s been your favorite moment of your pro career so far?

“I think my favorite moment is just that little walk onto the ice before games. It’s honestly the coolest thing — hearing the fans screaming our names, screaming for the Charge. It gives me chills every single time.”

Q: What’s something people might not know about you off the ice?

“I think people don’t really know that I’m a louder personality in the locker room. I’m a big social person, I really value relationships and try to connect with every person on my team. I’m always smiling and always positive.”

Q: Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

“I’m not really superstitious. I just like to stay loose and have fun.”

Q: What’s your go-to pump-up song before a game?

“I’m really into rap. Drake is my favorite artist, so anything by Drake is my go-to pregame song.”

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