Today's Newsday features a full page spread in the sports section on Maine's stellar Ferraro Twins entitled: Ranger draft picks making their marks in Maine. Excerpts follow: They are expected to play for Team USA in the World Championships this coming April and in the 1994 Winter Olympics. After that, Peter, a center who was the Rangers' first-round 1992 draft pick, hopes to turn pro. Chris, a right wing the Rangers took in the fourth round, might need more seasoning. Both are 5-10. Peter, at 177 pounds, is 10 pounds heavier than Chris. Both twins are blue-collar players. "We'll never have to worry about their work ethic," Rangers scout David McNab said. "That's all they want to do--play. They're not going to be in awe of New York because they're from there.If they make it, it's great for us because you never have to worry, 'Will they show up?' They always show up. Their just so focused." ...The only mistake a player can make is to leave too soon, (Coach) Walsh said. "I want to go when I'm ready," Peter said, "not when I'm borderline." "It's important to get a degree," Chris said, "because there IS life after hockey." ...Maine players are critique verbally and via computer printouts at gameday breakfast meetings. Walsh uses state-of-the-art videotape breakdowns prepared by assistant coach Red Gendron. "That's what really impressed us--the video," Peter said. "They take stats in practice! No other school offered us this. Basically, this is a hockey factory. We've got a lot of talented players. I love winning. We're on a winning team. It's close to home. We had a good feeling on our visit this was the best place for us." ...Peter's stronger and gets more physically involved. He is probably closer to being ready. Chris is the one who needs to fill out. It might be that one has to wait." ...Asked how the Ferraros compare to Manhattan's Joey and Brian Mullen, who each played two years of college hockey before making the NHL, McNab said, "They have more talent at the same age. These guys have played a lot more hockey and everywhere they've gone they've done well." Their strengths are speed, the ability to change directions, good hands and booming slap shots....Friends say the Ferraros' biggest problem is being too hard on themselves. Chris said, "There's a point where you have to relax and have fun, but I am a perfectionist. I always want things to go well.... Peter said, "It's a game, it's fun, but it's a steppingstone to the NHL. We're not going to be satisfied until we're in the NHL." Maine fans enjoy this year's run--they may be all gone next year. _ "NYS // Hockey" Go 'Gate // Brian Morris Go RPI // Albany, NY ______// [log in to unmask] (______/