Veteran Voice: Shane Berschbach, Toledo Walleye

Veteran Voice gives ECHL fans the chance to get to know a veteran in the League ahead of the 2018-19 season. In this installment, the ECHL spoke with Shane Berschbach of the Toledo Walleye, who enters his fifth professional season in 2018-19. Berschbach is a two-time recipient of the ECHL Sportsmanship Award (2015-16 and 2016-17) and was named to the All-ECHL First Team in 2015-16.

Name: Shane Berschbach

Age: 27

Hometown: Clawson, Michigan

Team: Toledo Walleye

2017-18 Stats: 59 gp, 19g, 32a, 51 pts.

ECHL Career Stats: 258 gp, 77g, 192a, 269 pts.

ECHL: What made you decide to re-sign in Toledo for the 2018-19 Season?

Shane Berschbach: I signed in Toledo because I enjoy the professionalism and the types of people that work for the organization, and of course to play in front of the best fans in the league. The staff and personnel are top notch.

ECHL: Having played five seasons with the Walleye, and playing so close to your hometown, what does the city and fans mean to you?

SB: It's been a blessing playing so close to home. Being able to have so many friends and family come watch me play on a regular basis is something special. The city of Toledo means a lot to me. I've grown to love the city after four years, it's a special city.

ECHL: What are the keys to how you have been a consistent performer in your first five seasons with the team?

SB: I have been given great opportunities with great coaches and players ever since I came to Toledo. We have had high caliber players and coaches each season which makes for a comfortable environment to perform in. I wouldn't have had the success I've had without those coaches and players.

ECHL: As a veteran in the League and a leader in the dressing room, what is your message to the rookies and younger guys in the room?

SB: My message to younger players would be not to take anything for granted, work hard every day, control what you can control and enjoy the journey. We are very lucky to get to play the game we love every day.

ECHL How are you spending your summer?

SB: This summer I have been training, golfing and working youth hockey schools. It's also great to give back to the game that's given you so much. I’ve also been spending time with my fiancé Krista, our dog Zeus and our friends and family.