Catching up with... Jamal Mayers

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 forward Jamal Mayers, who signed a one-year deal with the Blackhawks on July 1. In 78 games with San Jose last season, Mayers tallied 14 points (3G, 11A) and racked up 124 penalty minutes.

What did you do this summer?
It was a short summer, so basically we got back to St. Louis, which is our offseason home. Mostly I was enjoying time with the girls—I have two daughters—swimming and training.

Did you do anything special?
When the season ended, we went to San Diego and went to the zoo there, which was beautiful, and then SeaWorld.

Do you have a favorite offseason hobby?
I like to play tennis.

What about a favorite vacation spot?
Virgin Islands.

Did you keep in touch with any current or former teammates?
I keep in touch with a lot of guys through texting.

What hockey skills did you work on in particular?
Mainly it’s about quickness, so I’m constantly working on speed and skating fast.

Do you have a personal goal for this season?
Win the Stanley Cup.