During his four years as a member of the Ohio hockey team, Steve Osacky has been one of the team’s best defensemen. Known mostly for his offense, this season he has emerged on the other side of the puck.
Since 2007–2008, no Ohio defenseman has recorded more points than Osacky. In fact, his 90 career points rank fifth among all active Ohio players. But in his senior season, Osacky said he wanted to become well-rounded.
“As my career has gone on, I’ve tried to become more defensive,” Osacky said. “Especially this year, I’ve focused on blocking shots and taking care of the defensive zone first to make sure the puck gets out.”
Osacky began to develop his offensive skill while in high school in Oak Forest, Ill., where he played a year at forward. After high school, he joined the Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks where, in his final season, he led all defensemen with 38 points.
“Juniors was where I really developed my offensive game,” Osacky said. “Before that, I was one or the other. I think being both and being able to play on defense and still be offensive really made me valuable to coach (Dan) Morris.”
From the moment he stepped on the ice in Bird Arena, Osacky was able to contribute offensively, but his defensive game took some time to improve.
One factor that could have played a role in Osacky’s progression into the player he is today is his maturity on the ice.
“This year he’s shown the ability to control his emotions. In the past he hasn’t always been able to do that,” Morris said.
With a new goaltender between the pipes, defensive play became even more important to the Bobcats this year.
Despite the loss of goaltender Paul Marshall, Ohio has excelled on defense and allowed one goal or less in 13 games this season.
With his hockey career winding down, Osacky said he recognizes the importance of strong defensive play.
“It’s the last go, so every day at the rink is important,” he said. “Maybe that’s why I’m more defensive. I’ve got to take responsibility for what I’m doing out there and give it my all each time.”
During his freshman year, Osacky recorded 27 points and ran a veteran-laden power play unit. Although he scored only two goals that season, his 25 assists were the second most on the team.
“He came in as a freshman and, right off the bat, ran the top of that power play unit,” Morris said. “That’s the kind of player he was in juniors, and we recruited him to come in and fit that role. He’s been very successful at it.”
Although he has continued to put up the offensive numbers, Osacky leads the team in blocked shots this year and has developed into one of the team’s best penalty killers.
“In the past, we might not have had him in that role, but now he’s excelling on both ends of the ice, and that’s been a plus for us,” Morris said.
Looking back on his career at Ohio, Osacky said he’s most proud of three things.
“Two league championships and hopefully a national championship this year,” he said.
ro137807@ohiou.edu
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