Journal sports editor Jerry Clark caught up with Pine-Richland forward Tyler Deal to talk about the Rams championship, as well as what lies ahead for the three-time champion.

Jerry Clark: "How fortunate do you feel to be able to play for the Penguins Cup for four straight years?"

Tyler Deal: "It's a great honor, and after the first time, I felt fortunate because it is a once in a lifetime opportunity. To be there four times is an unbelievable experience."

TD: "I would have to say this year because I am a senior and it was my last shot. The years past were special wins, but being a senior made this the most special."

JC: "How different is this year's championship team from the team that came here the first time?"

TD: "The talent is more spread out now. We have good seniors, good juniors and sophomores and of course Brandon (Saad) is a freshman."

JC: "Has the program changed drastically in your four years here?"

TD: "The biggest difference is getting a new coach after my sophomore season, and a new staff. The players stayed basically the same and so did the goals. We want to win championships."

JC: "With the state finals coming up, how will you prepare?"

TD: "We had a coach scout the Flyers Cup game. So we will come up with a game plan and go over it this week."

JC: "Is the pressure of going undefeated added to the moment?"

TD: "We have got to look at this as one game. Sure, the undefeated record is on the line, but the goal is the state title."

JC: "What kind of mark do you hope to leave on the program when the season is over?"

TD: "The biggest thing is a good tradition. I have been part of the program since middle school, and the varsity team has always been good, but I want to leave the youth with them continuing to win championships."

JC: "What are your plans for the future?"

TD: "I have not decided on a college yet. When I do, I will try to play either inline or ice hockey at the club level."

JC: "Tyler, thanks for your time and best of luck in the state title game."