Dec. 2, 2009
Calle Ridderwall, a junior left wing on the Fighting Irish hockey squad, has been seeing action on the ice since his freshman year. He was one of the top scorers in the CCHA as a sophomore, netting 17 goals last season. Noted for his speed and accurate shooting abilities, he was awarded Notre Dame’s most improved player award and was selected as an honorable mention all-CCHA choice during the 2008-2009 campaign. Originally from Sweden, Ridderwall sits down with UND.com for an inside look at this up-and-coming standout.
1. How did you become interested in hockey?
I was born into a hockey family. My dad played and coached and my uncle was a goalie for the Swedish National team.
2. Do you prefer close games or last-minute victories?
Close games; it is always special to win in the final minute of a game.
3. What has been your favorite memory with the Fighting Irish hockey team so far?
Winning against Michigan in overtime in the Frozen Four during my freshman year.
4. What is your favorite place on Notre Dame’s campus?
The middle of North Quad on a sunny day
5. What are some of your other favorite sports aside from hockey?
I enjoy soccer, and I also like golfing in the summer.
6. How would your teammates describe you?
“Euro”
7. What is your favorite NHL team and why?
Colorado Avalanche, because Swedish star Peter Forsberg used to play there
8. What is the first thing you want to do after a hard game or practice?
Sit down in the locker room and drink a protein shake
9. What are you most likely to eat before a game?
Pasta and chicken
10. Who are some of your role models?
My parents. Tiger Woods is a great athletic role model.
11. Why did you decide to come to Notre Dame?
I wanted to play hockey at a high level and, at the same time, get a finance degree.
12. What is your favorite way to score a goal?
A one-timer is always nice.
13. Who is the funniest person you know?
Kevin Deeth. He’s easy to laugh at, anyway.
14. What is your favorite class you have taken at Notre Dame?
I’m a finance major, so I might have to go with my first finance class with Carl Ackermann.
15. How do you mentally prepare before a game?
Positive thinking and a good power nap
16. What is the most intense game you have ever played in during your career?
Our game against Michigan in the Frozen Four freshman year
17. North Dining Hall or South Dining Hall?
That’s an easy one, North!
18. What do you miss most about your hometown?
The culture is more laid back.
19. What are your goals for this season?
Winning a national title
20. What does playing for the Fighting Irish mean to you?
It’s an honor and a great place to develop athletically.
— ND —