Catching up with... Ben Smith

How have the Blackhawks been spending their offseason? chicagoblackhawks.com recently sat down with your favorite players to see how their summer has gone so far and discuss some of their aspirations for the 2011-12 NHL campaign. chicagoblackhawks.com caught up with winger Ben Smith, who made his NHL debut last season, scoring a goal in six regular-season games before he tallied three goals in seven playoff contests.

What have you been up to this summer?
I’m at home in Connecticut, working with my trainer and spending time with friends and family.

Are there any skills or parts of your game that you’re specifically working on?
Overall, becoming a better athlete — getting on the ice and working on my hands and overall quickness.

What is your favorite offseason hobby?
Mostly just hanging out with buddies from school, going to the lake and getting a boat. Obviously, concerts are fun to go to, too.

Have you gone on any vacations?
Mostly it’s just weekends away. So far I’ve gone to Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire; it was an awesome trip.

What is your personal goal for the season?
Take things day by day, and try to be consistent from day one all the way through the end of the year.