The little ones who are out sliding on icy ponds and flooded backyards may imagine the bright lights of a professional ice arena. White Bear Lake Area High School alum Ryan Carter made his dream of playing professional hockey a reality, signing with teams including the Anaheim Ducks and the New Jersey Devils, and snagging a Stanley Cup along the way. Soon after signing with the Minnesota Wild this fall, Carter sat down to talk with us about his journey back home.
What is your earliest hockey memory?
I started playing when I was probably 3 years old. I remember playing the outdoor rinks and going out there and playing in the snow. Neighbors would flood their yards and we’d play there, too.
What was it like growing up in White Bear Lake?
We had a young neighborhood with a bunch of kids, so I had tons of buddies my own age that played hockey.
How did playing hockey at White Bear Lake Area High School prepare you for professional hockey? Well, for one, at that time a lot of the better players were leaving high school hockey to play junior hockey. I had those opportunities, but I decided to stay around because I had a quality coach, Bill Butters. Being able to play for a guy in high school who had played in the NHL, it helps you prepare for what the next step was, and at that time, it was college for me. It’s the little things they teach you along the way, and I’d say that’s kind of where the foundation started.
When did you decide you wanted to play professionally?
Probably at 4 years old, but it became reality in college.
What professional teams have you played for?
The first team was the Anaheim Ducks; I signed with them in 2006 and played my first game during the playoffs in May, 2007. I played for the Portland Pirates (the Anaheim Ducks’ minor league affiliate in the American Hockey League) for the entire 2006-07 regular season. Then I had a cup of coffee with Carolina [Hurricanes], a shot of espresso with Florida [Panthers]—these are terms we use—and then New Jersey.
How did you feel when you got the call from the Minnesota Wild?
It was exciting. I knew they were a good team, and for me, it’s important to win another Stanley Cup. I’m 31 years old now and there’s no guarantee you can play until you’re 40 years old like some guys, so the window of winning for me is shrinking. The fact that it allowed me to come home and play here, that was the icing on the cake.
What would you consider to be your greatest hockey achievement?
I’m proud about the Stanley Cup from 2006-07, but I probably take the most pride in the playoff run in 2012 with New Jersey. We played a big role in that—myself and my line-mates—we really helped our team win. I took a lot from that.
What do you see yourself doing when you’re done playing hockey?
I’ve got a couple of girls, so at some point, when I’m done with hockey, it’s going to be all about being their dad.
