Congratulations on signing for the Clan, Jon. You played for Bowdoin College in Boston and a few AHL/ECHL games as a forward before switching to defense with the Arizona Sundogs. Your insight to all-around game play makes you valuable to the team. Being a multifaceted player, with knowledge on both ends of the ice, what outlook does this give you as a defenseman?

Thank you very much!  This is something I thought about doing for a long time and I can't be more excited to experience Glasgow.  It's a funny story on how I became a defensemen. My dad always stressed the importance of skating and even my older sister, a figure skater, spent time developing my stride.   I loved scoring goals and making plays as a kid and coaches would often use my skills on defense during the power plays.  It wasn't until my first year pro that I actually played defense.  My team was playing short because of injuries, and coming off the ice I jokingly said to my coach that I played a little on the point and that if he needed help I would volunteer.  One practice later I found myself in the next game playing defense.  My coach said that he liked me better at this position.  I soon found that I too liked this position.  The game was made easier in my opinion.  All the players would try the moves that I used to use in my attempts to score.  After I stole the puck I was able to move it up the ice and follow the play and still contribute offensively.  Needless to say, I wish I would have made the transition earlier on in my hockey career.  

After playing four seasons for the Arizona Sundogs, you were able to have some opportunities that most people only dream of. What was your experience playing in the Central Hockey League All-stars?

I was extremely honored to have been selected to represent my team at the all-star game.  I had a really good start to the season and it was a great feeling to be rewarded for my efforts.  It was a really cool experience to play with the most talented players in the league but I have to be honest, It sure was weird playing on the same team as players that I had been beating up, checking, and trash talking for the majority of the season.  I was not surprised to find a terrific group of guys and we all shared a few beers after the game. To highlight of the night, I even scored a goal and added a helper!    

You finished your season in the DEL with the Cologne Sharks. What is the difference between playing in a European league opposed to playing in North America? How did you like playing in Germany?

Lets just say it was a big shock going from North America to Europe.  I had played on the olympic ice surface before but changing mid-season was tough.  Another thing that pissed me off were the refs.  I was awarded 16 minutes in penalties my first game for a clean body check!!!  Hopefully the refs are better in the UK.  I was given a great opportunity to play for one of the most prominent franchises in the world, outside the NHL, and I will always be thankful for the great experiences and memories.  I am looking forward to creating new ones in Scotland! 

Have you ever played with, or against, any of your new team mates on the Clan? What are the key strengths that your fellow Clansmen possess that play into your strengths? How will this bring your team to victory?

I have played with Bernier and let me just tell you he is one tough 'SOB'.  He does not back down from anyone and it really helps encourage the team.  I have played a few summer training games with Coach Bruce and Walthier and their intensity and passion for the game shows through even when its just for fun.  I am really excited to see when the cup and championship are on the line.  If Bruce is half as relentless on the ice as he is in calling his potential players trying to recruit them then we will do great.  I know how professional Bruce is and I am excited to be part of what he is putting together.       

Pursuing an MBA  would help keep you sharp on and off the ice. In what ways would engaging your mind off the ice help you on the ice?

Schooling has always been a priority in my life and in my family.  I have been extremely lucky that hockey has provided me the platform to excel at some incredible academic institutions throughout my life.  By keeping the mind stimulated off the ice it helps to keep the mind sharp on the ice.  Hockey is my passion and to have the opportunity to advance my personal life off the ice while contributing on the ice is a challenge I could not pass up.  I am extremely entrepreneurial and love talking business and future ventures.

Is there anything else you would like to say to the fans about this upcoming inaugural season?

I cannot wait to start the season, get to know my new teammates, meet the supporters, and win!