The World's Toughest Rodeo comes to Nationwide Arena this weekend, but regrettably Blue Jackets defenseman Kris Russell will be on a plane to Vancouver. Russell grew up around the sport and his father is a former bullfighter.

These days, dad is spending more time around the house in Caroline, Alberta, watching his son have a strong second season. After a brief minor-league stint, Russell has played with renewed confidence and purpose. He has two goals and seven assists in 27 games, one point shy of his total in 67 games last season.

(Be sure to check out Michael Arace's fine column about Russell on BlueJacketsXtra.com.)

Q: What has been the biggest difference in your game since you returned from the minors in mid-November?

A: It's confidence. I'm more confident with the puck and away from the puck. I'm using my speed and trying to make plays as quick as I can. I think my work ethic is also a little better and I'm a bit more aggressive.

Q: Is there anything that can prepare a defenseman for the ups and downs of an NHL rookie season, or do you just have to experience it?

A: It is tough. This is the best league in the world, and you have to be at your best every night. Everyone adjusts differently. Some have the talent to jump right in and others have to work at it a little harder. Last year was a tough year, but it was a great experience. I was very fortunate to get the full year up here. I just had to learn from last year and get better.

Q: You seem to be taking more chances and showing more creativity lately. Does that just come with the increase in confidence?

A: I think so. There was a time when I would see a hole, but I was too tentative to jump up and fill it. Now, when I see an opportunity I try to take it. I'll skate the puck down low. It becomes a lot harder for defenders if they have to worry about a D-man coming in late.

Q: This season the coaching staff has encouraged defensemen to become more involved in the offense as long as they exercise good judgment. That would seem to play to play to your strength, no?

A: It helps a lot. It's kind of the way I played in juniors. But you have to be smart about it. You can't take unnecessary risks or it will end up in the back of your net.

Q: The World's Toughest Rodeo "Toughest Cowboy" event is coming to the arena this weekend. Your father is a former bullfighter. Do you still watch rodeo?

A: Oh yeah, when I go back home to Alberta I see it and I've got some buddies who ride broncs. It's fun to watch and fun to listen to the old stories from my dad.

BONUS QUESTION: Who is tougher, hockey players or cowboys?

A: They are both pretty tough. Cowboys have a tough go. They have to get their rest every day. They deal with a lot bigger animals. I love both of them, and they have both been part of my family.

treed@dispatch.com