Revisiting Rams: Men's Ice Hockey's Greg Blais '06

Revisiting Rams: Men's Ice Hockey's Greg Blais '06

BOSTON – Greg Blais defended between the goals from the get-go of his four-year career for the Suffolk men's ice hockey team from 2002-06. Along the way he donned the 'C' as a senior and helped the Rams to a memorable playoff berth throughout his Rams' tenure. He continued his career after his days in blue-and-gold professionally in Europe, where he stills play today. GoSuffolkRams.com caught up the with the Rams' former netminder to see what its like across the pond.  

Since Suffolk, you’ve moved into the work field. Could you describe your current occupation, what company you work for and the role you have?
Since I graduated from Suffolk University I continued to play ice hockey at the professional level in Europe. I am lucky enough to still be involved in the game at the age of 39. Since playing at Suffolk University I played in several countries, Norway, France, Belgium, Holland and now I call England my home.  

As I am still playing hockey, I also have a real job. I am a currently serving as a Police Officer for Surrey Police in the United Kingdom. My role is a first responder. I absolutely love being a Police Officer as I am part of a team just like in hockey.

How did you land your job?
I got the job as a Police Officer after a lot of training and work experience as a Special Constable.

Is this your dream job?
Yes of course, being a Police Officer is my dream job. It is just like being part of a hockey team. I work with a team and we support each other throughout our shifts. I am very lucky to have achieved so much since Suffolk University. I believed attending Suffolk University helped me get to where I am today.

Describe your typical day.
My work days are always different. I never know what I will be called to each day. When I am not working I am playing ice hockey for the London Raiders Professional ice team in London.  

What’s the biggest perk of your job?
The best perk of my job is helping others that need me. It is an amazing feeling when you can help someone who needs it.

What are you most proud of?
I am proud to have two children and being married to an amazing British woman. I am also proud to be able to say that I was member of Suffolk University Ice Hockey team and was able to graduate from an amazing University. 

 

How did Suffolk prepare you for your role?
My four years playing for the Suffolk Rams prepared me for the professional ranks. I have to thank my coach at Suffolk Chris Glionna for giving me the opportunity when I was a freshman to play. Without Chris I would have never made it to where I am today. Chris is a huge role model and I am grateful for everything Chris has done for me as a goaltender for Suffolk.

What’s your favorite Suffolk memory?
My whole four years at Suffolk are fantastic memories, however, making it to the first round of the playoffs in 2004 was truly an amazing experience.

 

What advice do you have for current students?
Never give up on your goals and work hard at everything you do. For the current hockey players, to work hard each practice and you will achieve anything.

What made you choose Suffolk?
I had a friend and old junior hockey teammate Ben Barbari who introduced me to Chris Glionna and from there I was hooked on attending Suffolk University.

Outside of work/school, what is your life like? I.E. family, kids, what do you do for fun, etc?
I have two children Brody, 11, and Amber, 9. I have a beautiful wife, Michelle. For fun we all like to travel and see the world.

 

Ram Nation has the chance to stay in touch with Greg lais by following him on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.


Are you a Suffolk Athletics alum who would like to revisit with Ram Nation? Contact Sports Information Director Amy Barry at abarry7@suffolk.edu.