Scott Basiuk, a senior management major, is part of the Engineers’ solid core of experienced players. Basiuk is a defenseman, and after trying other positions, he wouldn’t have it any other way. “I like defense because I’m always in the action, whether it is in the defensive zone or offensive zone,” Basiuk said.
Born in the town of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Basiuk learned to skate as a toddler and began playing organized hockey at the age of five. Basiuk credits his father and grandfather for their coaching and encouragement, and his entire family for his success in hockey, as well as for all that he has achieved. Basiuk said, “I have a great family and I owe everything I have done to them.”
Basiuk’s coaches here at RPI have also been a positive influence on the defenseman. Their tough coaching dramatically improved Basiuk’s game.
Basiuk’s strategy going into a game is to maintain a levelheaded attitude, which helps him stay focused on what he needs to do on the ice. He prefers not to become too excited or energetic; in this way Basiuk maintains a precisely controlled game that is an asset to the Engineers.
When not playing or practicing, Basiuk is keeping up with his academic work or just relaxing. “We are very busy during the season so the key is to stay fresh and rested all year long,” Basiuk said. Playing college hockey takes a good deal of time and effort, but Basiuk still finds time to sit on the Sports Advisory Committee at RPI.
As a hockey player, Basiuk considers Wayne Gretzky and Bobby Orr his idols. Basiuk admires Gretzky and Orr, who are widely recognized as two of the very best hockey players of all time, for their amazing talents on the ice.
After RPI, Basiuk wants to play professional hockey for a few years. For the long term, Basiuk has no definite plans, but is looking into superintending his own golf course and starting a family.
Basiuk is very optimistic about the upcoming season. He sees promise in the freshman players and has high hopes for the Engineers’ performance.
