New York Rangers Robin Kovacs uses ADHD and Dyslexia to his Advantage
New York Rangers prospect, Robin Kovacs interviewed with Expressen Hockey, a Swedish newspaper, this past Sunday. A large part of his interview centered around his disabilities. Disabilities that do not seem to be connected to Kovacs when you read about him in American media.
Robin Kovacs was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia at 14 years old. However, what some people may see as unfortunate, Robin sees as an advantage.
Neuropsychiatric Disabilities and Athletes
Neuropsychiatric disabilities include ADHD, Asperger’s, Tourette’s, Autism and language disorders. These disabilities can be seen in a large proportion of our population and many people, myself included, who deal with these issues on a daily basis, can relate to Kovacs.
"“I’m very goal-oriented. Anytime I want something – as soon as I strive for something – so I always give 100 percent to get there quickly.”"
ADD and ADHD can leave people with many different obstacles that are unrecognizable to the naked eye. There may be times when it seems like thousands of things are running through your mind and every task is screaming to be completed immediately, but that is simply an impossible feat to conquer.
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People with ADD and ADHD can find themselves reading a book, only to stop and realize they have no idea what they read for the last hour because their mind is off thinking about what they will make for dinner. This aspect of neuropsychiatric disabilities can be made even more difficult when coupled with dyslexia, which can make reading and writing extremely frustrating and challenging.
"“I see my adhd only as an advantage. This means that I can train more. Want to practice all the time. And it also characterizes my way to play hockey; all the time with a lot of speed,” says Robin Kovacs."
Many coveted and highly successful athletes across all sports have dealt with some type of neuropsychiatric disease such as, Michael Phelps, Shane Victorino and Terry Bradshaw.
People and specifically children in sports who have ADHD or another form of a neuropsychiatric disease, can take some advice from Robin Kovacs,
"“We with ADHD have the energy to exercise more. We are more targeted. So just go to the gym instead of expending the energy otherwise.”"
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New York Rangers and Robin Kovacs
The 19 year-old Swede is coming off of a productive season with the AIK where he recorded 38 points in 51 games. Kovacs has another opportunity to join the New York Rangers, as he will skate for a position on the squad during Rangers training camp.
"“My goal is obviously to get to play there. That’s what I strive for. Ideally this fall.”"
Kovacs wants to play in New York this year, but he will be up against some stiff competition. Malte Strömwall, who also looks to skate his way into a roster position, recently signed Pavel Buchnevich and Cristoval Nieves will all be fighting for roster positions this June. Only time will tell how Kovacs’ journey to the states will end, but either way his attitude is incredible, his work ethic is second to none and the NHL could use more players with his personality and outlook on life.