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Women In Sports Series: Q&A with Buffalo Beauts Defenseman, Emily Pfalzer

As many of you know, March is Women’s History Month. Women and sports are becoming more and more popular. Whether it be female athletes, coaches, or those working behind the scenes, women are playing a larger and larger role in athletics every year. To help celebrate Women’s History Month and women in sports, throughout March, Double G Media will share one interview per day, highlighting a woman in the sports world.

Today we introduce you to Emily Pfalzer, captain of the Buffalo Beauts of the National Women’s Hockey League. The NWHL is currently in it’s inaugural season. Pfalzer is tied for the team lead with ten assists to go along with her two goals.

Pfalzer, a defenseman, is also a member of the Unites States Women’s Ice Hockey Team.

(Photo courtesy of NWHL)

(Photo courtesy of NWHL)

 

DoubleGSports: When did you know you wanted a career in sports?

Emily Pfalzer: I have always wanted to play hockey for as long as I could, but it wasn’t until my senior year at Boston College that I thought of having a “career” in ice hockey. One of these reasons is because of the inaugural season of the NWHL, which is the first paid professional women’s hockey league. This was the first opportunity I had to get paid for playing the sport I love.

DGS: Being a woman in sports, have you come across any specific challenges or discouragement?

EP: One challenge that I have come across, specifically this year with it being the inaugural season of the NWHL, is that some people do not know that women play professional hockey.

DGS: Who do you look to for inspiration in the sports world?

EP: My boyfriend also plays professional ice hockey, so I feel fortunate that I can talk to him about everything that encompasses being a professional athlete.

DGS: How do you feel about the current status of women in sports? What can improve?

EP: I feel like female sports have increased in popularity over the years, but still has a way to go.

DGS: When your career in sports is over, what do you hope people remember you by?

EP: I take pride in giving my all in anything that I do.  So when my career in sports is over, I hope people remember me as a player who always tried her best and never gave up.

DGS: Who is your favorite hockey player, past and present (if different), and why?

EP: Growing up in Buffalo, I always watched the Sabres games.  My favorite player would have to be Chris Drury.

DGS: While playing in your younger days, what did you aspire to be/do when you got older?

EP: I have always dreamt of playing in the Olympics.  But, when my hockey career is over, I would like to go to medical school and become a doctor.

DGS: 2015 was a big year for you. Finishing your senior year of college hockey, making the Women’s National Team for the first time, and starting a professional hockey career. What were your thoughts throughout the journey?

EP: I feel so lucky that I was able to attend such an amazing school with an incredible hockey program.  My senior year at Boston College is one I will never forget.  I am so honored I was able to play for two Olympians and with such talented players who helped me become a better player and person.

DGS: You’re playing professional women’s hockey right next door to your home town. How does that feel?

EP: It has been six years since I have played in Buffalo, so it has really been a great experience coming back home.  I love playing for my city, and it is nice to have family and friends come to all of my home games.

 

(Photo courtesy of NWHL)

(Photo courtesy of NWHL)

 

DGS: What do you do for fun outside of your sports career?

EP: In the summer, I love going to my cottage and spending time on the lake.

DGS: Do you have a lucky article of clothing or other superstition?

EP: I do not have a lucky article of clothing and I am not really a superstitious person.  I have the same routine when I come to the rink everyday, but nothing out of the ordinary.

DGS: Warm up playlist. What music gets you ready for a day at work?

EP: I like to listen to country music.

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Jackie Daly

Jackie Daly has been with In The Zone since 2012. Her contributions have been mostly in NHL and special events coverage. Jackie has been a writer, video host, and podcast host with ITZ. She currently co-hosts Tea Time with Mel and Jay. Outside ITZ, Jackie works with MLS's New York City Football Club and the AHL's Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
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