Cote Carnival – Part 2 of 3

Before I get started, I have to say thank you again to Riley and Holly Cote for taking the time out of their busy schedules to answer a couple questions, not only about the Cote Carnival, but about their lives in the NHL.

So here’s part 2 of my Cote Carnival series, a quick sit down with Riley Cote.

Last year, you raised almost $17,000 for MS. What are your goals for the Cote Carnival this year?
Last year raised just under 17K and this year we are setting the bar high but hoping to double that.

How did you spend your off-season?
This year my off season was kind of backwards. Because of my surgery towards the end of the season I almost felt like that was my time off I usually take at the end of the season. So I started working out hard as soon as I got my cast off. Then headed back home for a couple weeks, Vegas for 4 days and then back training at the Skate Zone in Voorhees where I spend my summers.

The fans all know you suffered a finger injury late last season. Could you explain a little more about what happened, your rehab and how you feel now?
My last fight I got my finger caught in the jersey on my first grab and it dislocated my finger and blew out all the ligaments. I had surgery and now its totally healed, stronger than before. Rehab was close to 12 weeks. Just trying to strengthen it and get the range of motion back. I can make a full fist so thats all that matters.

With the player changes this season and the new goalie coach, how optimistic are you about the 2009-2010 campaign?
When I look at our squad, I feel like this is the year. We got a great team and we are going to be a hard team to play against. Old school flyers hockey. This team was built to win a cup.

And finally, can you take us through a typical game day?
Game days are usually always the same. Wake up and eat breakfast. Go to our pre game skate. Eat our pre game meal(same every time). Then a 2 hour nap. Head to the rink where I get ready for the game.

Just in case you don’t know, here’s the information about the Cote Carnival…

When: Sunday, August 23rd, 2009
Where: Swanky Bubbles – 482 Evesham Road – Cherry Hill, NJ
Who: Scheduled to attend so far, Riley and Holly Cote and Ray Emery
How Much: Adults $50, Children 12 and under $20
~ This includes food, drinks and entertainment, players and alumni will be there for autograph opportunities (for a small donation)
To order tickets and get more info, check out  www.cotecarnival.net