Getting to know Battlefords North Stars alternate captain Raiden Zacharias

Having grown up in Saskatoon, Zacharias isn’t far from home.

“I think it’s probably one of the best parts about being here. It’s convenient. Day off Sunday, just head home and then be able to be right back out for Monday morning.”

When Zacharias goes home, he sees his parents and younger brother, Asher, whom he described as one of his best friends.

“I think it’s always nice having someone around like that. As we got older, we got to the age where it’s not so much, ‘I’m gonna tell on you.’ It’s me and you, like we’re going to figure it out on our own. It’s really good to have him around, and everything I do in the summer, he’s pushing me or I’m pushing him.”

While he visits Saskatoon often, his family also tries to make its way to the Battlefords for games whenever possible.

“They try to come to every game. My dad, every game in Battleford, he’s usually here. Mom can come out whenever she can,” he said.

“My brother will come out with a couple of friends, and then Kieran Sobry is actually good friends with him, so I’m pretty close with him too.”

A Blades fan growing up, Zacharias said one of his coolest experiences at a game involved former Regina Pats star Connor Bedard.

“I was a little bit older, but when Bedard was playing Saskatoon in round one, Game 7 in Saskatoon, that was probably one of the coolest games I’ve watched.”

The Blades beat the Pats in that game, and Zacharias witnessed Bedard’s final WHL appearance.

When Zacharias is away from the rink in the Battlefords, he likes to go to the gym. He also mentioned Big Barrel Tavern as a favourite spot for the team, particularly for the wings.

While relaxing at home, Zacharias said he has recently become interested in true-crime series.

“I’ve actually tried getting into all those monster ones, like Menendez Brothers and all those. The Ed Gein one last year, me and Josh Knittig kind of dialed into that one, so that was good.”

In terms of music, he likes country in the summer, then more rap and EDM in the winter. Some players are particular about their game-day music, but Zacharias isn’t too concerned. “I’m not really too particular pre-game. Whatever’s on is good.”

One of Zacharias’ unique hobbies helps with his hand-eye co-ordination.

“The last few years, from time to time, I’ll pick up a couple of balls and juggling toys and just try to learn as much as I can with it, going as far as I can. I’m still just learning the three.”

Now that he is used to the Battlefords, Zacharias has also become familiar with the support the team receives from the community.

“I kind of feel like wherever we go, everyone’s always welcoming, supporting the team. That’s really what you need in a place like this. That’s just great to have.”

As he plays out his 20-year-old season, Zacharias is looking to attend school but hasn’t settled on a career path.

“Go to school either way. Then, for a set career, just keeping my options open and looking as the year goes. If a U Sports offer or something comes along, obviously consider that, but if not, just go to U of S.”

Zacharias has started the season hot, leading the North Stars with 1G-6A-7P through five games.

“I was just stepping up a little bit more, getting in there at times when you need a little bit more. I think that’s paid off for myself so far.”

He and the North Stars will continue their season Friday when they welcome the Melfort Mustangs.

Read more Battlefords North Stars player profiles below:

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Ryan.Lambert@pattisonmedia.com

by Ryan Lambert

Getting to know Battlefords North Stars alternate captain Raiden Zacharias

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