The Lone Star Brahmas return ten skaters for the 2020-21 season, including Joey Baez, Cole Beilke, Jack Collins, Andrew DeCarlo, Mitchell Digby, Stefan Miklakos, Dylan Smith and Joey Trazzera. Brahmas media spoke to each player to learn about the abrupt end to the 2019-20 year, off-season activities and what they are looking forward to for the upcoming NAHL season.
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS — If you paid any attention to NAHL hockey last season, you probably know Joey Baez. The 2019-20 NAHL (South) MVP and Forward of the Year completed his 86th game for the Lone Star Brahmas in 2020, totaling 79 career points (44g-35a). He holds numerous places in the Brahmas season and career records, and even took home the coveted Most Goals in the NAHL award last season with 32. But before this Army-West Point commit departs junior hockey for good, he’s ready to give it his all one last time. Keep reading to learn more about the Tampa, Fla. native.
Brahmas Media: How would you describe the 2019-20 season in your own experience?
Joey Baez: It was the best season of my hockey career, and my life. We had a really solid team and everyone on the team felt like family. We got along really well and it sucks we had to cut it short. I believe we had the chance to win the Robertson Cup.
BM: What was it like when you learned the season was cancelled?
JB: It was crushing for all of us. We were excited about the playoffs and the chance to win the cup, but unfortunately that wasn’t the case. Everyone was shocked, especially with the team we had.
BM: How have you been staying in-shape and motivated during the longer off-season?
JB: I’ve been working out and skating as much as I can back home. My mental motivation is the pain I and my team felt when the season got cut short last year when we had such a good chance to go all the way. Playoffs are the best time of the year, so I’m excited to get there again this season.
BM: What is one part of your game that you’re confident in and one part you’re looking forward to working on this season?
JB: One thing I need to work on is defense. I’ve struggled with it in the past. One thing I’m confident in is being able to get to the net and find open areas. I’d like to score some goals again this year.
BM: What are you most excited for regarding this upcoming season?
JB: I’m excited to start winning again and get back into the rhythm with our new team.
Fast facts about Joey Baez:
Height: 5’9
Weight: 175
Position: Forward
Shoots: Right
Hometown: Tampa, Fla.
Favorite–
Movie: Step Brothers
Ice cream flavor: Chocolate chip cookie dough
Breakfast food: Eggs and bacon with toast
Hockey player: Steven Stamkos
Season: Summer
Dream job (besides hockey player): Being in the Army
Superpower of choice: Invisibility
Dream vacation destination: Anna Maria Island, Fla.
Hidden talent: Can do a cartwheel
Best thing about living in North Richland Hills/playing at NYTEX: The fans. “Home games are unreal.” – Joey Baez
Sydney Johnson is a media and content intern with the Lone Star Brahmas.