Willie Raskob lists the University of North Dakota as his favorite opponent -- and for good reason. After all, during his two-plus seasons of blue line work at the University of Minnesota Duluth, Raskob has enjoyed more offensive success against Fighting Hawks than any other foe. In his six lifetime outings with the Bulldogs' long-time rivals, the Hastings, Minn., native, has generated one goal and six assists for seven points -- exactly one fifth of his entire career output -- and is a +5 to boot.
One year ago, in the lone series between the two clubs (Jan. 9-10 in Grand Forks), Raskob was chosen the National Collegiate Hockey Conference Defenseman of the Week -- a first for him -- after he figured in on half of the UMD's six goals over the weekend.
So, guess whose coming to dinner this weekend?
HIS FAVORITESOpponent: North Dakota
Opponent Arena: Ralph Engelstad Arena (North Dakota)
Road Trip: Oxford, Ohio
Professional Athlete: Steph Curry
Professional Team: Minnesota Timberwolves
Pastime: Golf
College Course: Business Law
Prized Possession: My Saint Christopher necklace
TV Show: Suits
Singer or Group: Country genre
Book (Author): Hatchet (Gary Paulsen)
Food: Chicken and rice
Movie: Tommy Boy
Actor/Actress: Chris Farley/Jennifer Aniston
Restaurant: Northern Waters Smokehaus
Vacation Spot: Bay Lake (Garrison, Minn.)
Video Game: Call of Duty
Mobile App: Twitter
Website: Google
PERSONALLY SPEAKINGWhy I Chose UMD: Because of the first-class hockey program, city and fans.
First Played Competitive Hockey: Age 4
Hockey Strength/Weakness: My hockey sense/My consistency
Game Day Ritual: I take a nap after the pre-game meal.
Most Memorable UMD Hockey Moment: Being a member of the first Bulldog team to beat the Minnesota Gophers six straight times.
Why I Wear No. 15: It's the number I've worn most of career.
Best Opposing Player I've Ever Faced: (Former Boston University All-American center) Jack Eichel
Pet Peeve: Adam Johnson's attitude
Biggest Fear: Snakes on a plane
My First Job: Working on the grounds crew at the Bellwood Oaks Gold Course as a teenager.
Person I'd Most Like to Meet: Nicklas Lidstrom
What Most People Don't Know About Me: I love to dance.
If I Could Change One Thing About Myself: I'd be six feet tall.
Something I Never Leave Home Without: My wallet
Sport I'd Like to Try Someday: Basketball (competitive)
The Best Thing About College Hockey: Having 25 brothers and playing with them everyday.
Influences On My Athletic Career: My parents and siblings
Advice to an Aspiring Young Athlete: Work hard and never give up on your dreams!
Post-UMD Plans: Hopefully play hockey somewhere.
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