Manny Malhotra, Hockey Player (photo by Jamie Sabau/ Columbus Blue Jackets)
Manny Malhotra
Twenty-six year old Manny Malhotra dominates in a league of his own. Literally. As the only professional hockey player of Indian descent, Manny is successfully skating his way through untreaded territory. Having discovered his love for the sport at an early age, Mannys relentless work ethic and competitive edge won him a spot in the major Canadian junior hockey league before turning sixteen years old. After being drafted 7th overall in the 1998 N.H.L entry draft by the New York Rangers, Mannys talent and tenacity spoke for itself. Having played on US teams such as the Rangers and Dallas Stars, Manny has made a flawless transition to the American leagues. A true Canadian at heart, however, Manny was given the honor to play on the Canadian team at the World Championships. Read more about this one of a kind as we interview him in this week’s Young and Professional profile.
1996-97: Guelph
1997-98: Guelph
1998-99: NY Rangers (NHL)
1999-00: NY Rangers (NHL)
1999-00: Guelph
1999-00: Hartford
2000-01: NY Rangers (NHL)
2000-01: Hartford
2000-01: Hartford
2001-02: NY Rangers (NHL)
2001-02: Dallas (NHL)
2002-03: Dallas (NHL)
2002-03: Dallas (NHL)
2003-04: Dallas (NHL)
2003-04: Columbus (NHL)
2004-05: HV71 Jonkoping Sweden
2003-04: Ljubljana Slovenia
2005-06: Columbus (NHL)
2006-07: Columbus (NHL)
Ethnicity
East Indian and French Canadian
What’s your story?
I started at the age of seven playing hockey with the Mississauga Reps. At 15, I was drafted to the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League (a major junior hockey team in Canada and a platform for being drafted to the NHL). At 18, I was drafted by the New York Rangers where I played for three and a half years. I played for the Dallas Stars for a year and a half and have since been playing in Columbus. I have had the honor to play for Canada at the World Juniors twice, once at the World Championships, and the Under 18 World Championships as well.
What do you do day to day?
Training and staying in shape are always my priorities.
Most notable achievement
Being drafted 7th overall in the 1998 N.H.L. entry draft by the New York Rangers.
What’s your niche?
My work ethic and my competitive nature. I am the only player of Indian descent in the league.
What’s in store for the future?
As is the same with all players in the league – the hope to win a Stanley cup.
Focus on your own responsibilities, preparation, and setting high expectations for yourself.
Guiding principle in life
Everywhere you go should be a better place for you having been there. Always try to have positive influence on things.
Yardstick of success
Being able to say I poured all I have into whatever I do.
Goal yet to be achieved
Winning a Stanley cup.
Best practical advice
Live each day to the fullest, and make the most of every situation that comes your way.
Supportive words from a family member or friend on your venture
Take pride in what you do and always have fun doing it.
Nost memorable business experience
Sitting beside Wayne Gretzky all year when I played for the Rangers. I learned so much every day about how to carry myself on and off the ice. The advice he gave me was invaluable.
Mentor
My parents
What motivates you for success?
Just wanting to be the best at whatever I do. I think it comes from being the youngest child and always having to prove myself to my siblings.
Like best about what you do?
The fact that I get to do what I love every day and call it my job.
Like least about what you do?
There is not too much I can complain about, but if anything it’s riding the stationary bike – it’s just boring everyday.
At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I knew I wanted to play hockey in the N.H.L.
Biggest pastime outside of work
I love watching movies.
Person most interested in meeting
Mohammed Ali. He is my favorite athlete of all time.
Three interesting facts about yourself
I am very eclectic when it comes to music. I love to cook. I am a terrible swimmer.
Three characteristics that describe you
Passionate, determined, and energetic.
Three greatest passions
Food, music, sports.
Favorite book
Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Favorite cause
Not any one in particular, but any organization geared toward helping youths in any way is a great cause in my opinion.
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