Milestone Year: Casey Kubara

Casey Kubara - Mental preparation before the puck drop at the Brave Cave. Photo credit: Verity Griffin

THE WINNING MENTALITY
Casey Kubara is no stranger to the winning mentality of the Brave, or the success of the team over the past ten years. So how has the Alternate Captain found his milestone filled season so far?

“It’s probably the highest honour to play for your country and wear the green and gold with the Kangaroo on your chest. It is a privilege I will never take for granted but it is obviously tough missing games for the Brave and knowing there is a hole in our line up back home. Coming back into the team I tried to play to my strengths, do what I do, and help change momentum to string together some wins."
 
"We wanted to come back and start getting in the win column, but we didn’t get there right away. You can’t change the game with one player, it is a group effort, so we needed that time to gel.”
 

Casey Kubara - Enjoying the moment with the crowd. Photo credit: Verity Griffin

THE TURNING POINT
The turning point in Casey’s opinion was the double header in Adelaide (18-19 May) where the Brave came away with two wins. “It felt like we finally had a full line up and started to click as a team. It’s hard to explain but you just feel the momentum shift and start rolling.”


Casey Kubara - A Picture of concentration. Photo credit: Verity Griffin

MILESTONES
On his milestone success, Casey reflects, “I think it’s just that time in my career where I have played pretty consistently since the start and the milestones all seem to fall at the same time. I played a different role in the first couple of years where I was more of a shut-down guy and then grew into a more offensive role where I played with so many really talented players that helped set up some pretty big points for me."
 
"I wouldn’t say I am doing anything different, just playing my game. 3 points for the team is bigger than 3 points for me so I am more focused on that team first mentality.”
 
THE BRAVE LOCKER ROOM
The Brave locker room culture is one that is often highlighted as a key strength of the team. On this Casey says, “From the team to the volunteers, fans and sponsors they help us build a culture in the locker room that is like a brotherhood. You are really willing to sacrifice yourself for one of your team-mates whether it is taking a hit or blocking a shot. You don’t get that everywhere."
 
"We really do have a good group and we see each other pretty much every day for 6 months and it makes a huge difference when everyone gets along. It makes winning more fun and losing not as tough when you have a good group around you.”

Casey Kubara, Kai Miettinen and Tommy Steven - Post goal celly in Newcastle. Photo credit: Jess Fuller

 
(L) Casey Kubara - Impressive in the "Dijon". Photo credit: Verity Griffin.


(R) Casey Kubara - Marshalling the troops for battle. Photo credit: Verity Griffin