Former Flin Flon Bombers goalie Carsen Chubak is still stopping pucks. The 26-year-old currently plays for the Edinburgh Capitals of the UK-based Elite Ice Hockey League.
It is Chubak’s second season in Europe and the EIHL. Last year he suited up for the Belfast Giants.
“Europe has been an incredible experience so far,” Chubak said. “It’s really a privilege to be able to play the game you love, while being able to travel and see the world.”
Chubak split his professional rookie season of 2013-14 between the AHL’s Adirondack Phantoms and three ECHL squads.
He said the major differences between European hockey and minor pro in North America are outside the rink.
“The different cultures and architecture make for a very unique experience, far different from that of Saskatchewan or North America in general,” Chubak said. “Inside the rink the game is much the same. Fans like to do a bit more chanting over in Europe, similar to that of a soccer atmosphere, which adds a unique element you don’t really have in North America.”
Chubak, who is from Prince Albert, played for Flin Flon in 2007-2008. He has good memories of his lone season with
the Bombers.
“Flin Flon was a very special place to play,” Chubak said. “The atmosphere and history of the Whitney Forum rivals that of any arena I have played in. All things considered I would have to say the people are what I miss most about playing for the Bombers. It was my first experience living away from home, and everyone from teammates to fans helped make the transition easy.”
After playing in Flin Flon, Chubak played for the British Columbia Hockey League’s Powell River Kings and Tri-City Storm of the United States Hockey League.
He then competed three seasons at Niagara University in New York State. Chubak was a finalist for the 2013 Hobey Baker Award, which is given annually to the top NCAA Division I hockey player each season.
