NEW YORK – Earlier this year, Greek-American Trevor Zegras helped lead underdog Team USA to win the gold over hockey powerhouse Canada on home ice in Edmonton at the World Junior Hockey Championship. The professional ice hockey center currently plays for the Anaheim Ducks of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected by the Ducks, ninth overall, in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. Zegras played his college hockey at Boston University. He spoke to The National Herald about hockey and about his Greek heritage.

TNH: Why did you choose hockey over baseball or basketball?

Trevor Zegras: As a kid I played all sports. Baseball, soccer, tennis and golf. But for me hockey was always my favorite sport and when it came time to choose it was an easy decision.

TNH: This season went very well for you. You made your NHL debut, scoring your first league goal, showing that you are in great shape. How does you plan to continue this progress next season?

TZ: Making the jump to the NHL wasn't easy and I have so much work to do. This offseason I will spend three months in the gym getting stronger. I will also be working on ice to get faster and work on my game.

TNH: With the national team, you have won many medals and distinctions with the most important being the MVP in the IIHF World Championship. Are the distinctions and medals the goal or are they motivation for the future?

TZ: World Jr's was an incredible experience. I'm happy with how I played and winning MVP was an honor. But that tournament was all about the team. It was an incredible team effort and I am so proud that we will always be remembered for that championship.

TNH: What is your relationship with Greece? Do you speak Greek? Do you visit Greece on vacation?

TZ: I don't speak Greek, but I am definitely planning on visiting Greece. Hopefully, sometime in the next few years.

TNH: Do you follow the developments in Greece? And if so, what do you think?

TZ: I'm not really aware of everything going on in Greece politically. I do know that they have faced some challenges the last few years.

TNH: What are your dreams about hockey and what would you like to do in the future?

TZ: My dream was always to play in the NHL. Now that I have played my first games, I want to have a long career, push myself to be one of top players in the league and of course win a Stanley Cup.

TNH: Sports and winning championships require many sacrifices for young athletes. Is there anything that you feel you missed out on?

TZ: I missed out on a lot of stuff growing up but I wouldn't change a thing. All the sacrifices were well worth it!

TNH: What message would you share with young people your age?

TZ: If you have a dream don't be afraid to chase it. It takes a lot of hard work, but in the end it's well worth it.