Born in Telford on 16 July 1980, Dan recalls that his first game was "For Telford U12’s against Solihull, we lost about 25-0! I missed a peno (penalty shot) and started to cry! My first goal came against Peterborough for the under 12’s.
"My first senior game was against Billingham Bombers for Telford when I was 15yrs old".
His first senior goal came in a challenge match in Telford against the Sheffield Steelers, "I was only 15, I passed Moray Hanson to score the goal and Neil Abel was playing in that game too!!
"Neil is a nice guy, he helps me a lot in training, as do all the guys," but his favourite players are "Rick (GOD) Brebant - for ruling G.B ice hockey, Wayne Gretzky - for being himself, and Pavel Bure - for the power and speed he skates at."
Danny lists his role models as Richard Branson, Luke Skywalker! and anyone in the NHL or playing for the Montreal Canadians!
Coming back to hockey, and during the 97-98 season Danny was not getting the ice time he deserved from Telford, who played in the Southern Premier with a squad full of imports which meant the young Brits had to sit of most of the matches.
When the opportunity of signing for Lancashire came up Dan was faced with a big decision, stay at Telford with his friends and family or move to a strange town where he knew nobody but where he was virtually guaranteed ice time. But could he really turn down the chance of playing for Lancashire’s premier hockey club?
"At Telford there were too many imports and dual-nationals, here I can get more ice time which is what being a hockey player is all about. It’s no good sitting on the bench and watching.
"The people here are great, Jim, Bobby and Neil always try to help me, all the guys help each other. It’s a great learning experience".
And what about the fans in Blackburn? "Well, the fans are good, the atmosphere here is terrific, you get a lot more supporters in than at Telford". But when asked who had the best supporters the answer was no comment.
As for ambition, this lad doesn’t ask for much! "Ambitions, to play at the highest level I can, to get rich and not to get married!!! I would like to be a fireman, or a policeman, but now I am working towards being a leisure centre manager."
Away from hockey Mr. Mackriel sees himself as a bit of a ladies man; When asked about his ideal night out there are two options, "a few drinks and onto a club - or out for a meal and hopefully an early night!."
Football, field hockey, rugby and cricket are just some of the other sports he’s tried his hand at, including playing field hockey for the Midlands.
One thing Danny did want to stress is that "My time in Blackburn has been wonderful, the people are friendly and club is great.
"I hope I can stay here for next season, I’m really enjoying my time in Blackburn". – Maybe that has something to do with the Limo he was offered in his contract (but is still waiting for) – is this true John Neville or just a nasty rumour?
I’m sure all the Hawks supporters want our number one goal scorer to stay more than just one more season. Good luck with the rest of the play-offs and for all your time at Blackburn Arena.
Danny Mackriel was speaking to Tony Preece