How long have you been playing hockey?

Next year will be my 10^th year.

Why did you choose to play hockey over other sports like football or baseball?

It was due to the fast pace of the game, and the fact that it was different than everything else.

How often do you play hockey (practice, games, tournaments, seasons, etc.)?

Hockey starts in the fall, and ends towards the end of February. I play in a spring league and a summer league.

Tell me about your average practice.

Our practices are 2 hours long. The first hour is conditioning and skating. The second half is practicing plays, entering the zone, stuff like that.

What are some places that you have traveled to for hockey?

I’ve been to Springfield, Wichita, Dallas, Des Moines, places like that.

Tell me about your best game as a hockey player.

My best game as a hockey player was in a tournament for third place. Our team won 1-0.

What are some hardships or struggles that you have had to overcome?

This year, during a game, I pulled my hamstring. It was the end of the season tournament, and I tried to play through it. It was a tough blow to end the season with a 0-5 loss.

How do you feel about some hockey stereotypes such as just “beating each other up” or as a lesser sport?

I really don’t like it. That’s not what the game’s about. It’s just thrown in there for the fans. It’s more about the goal scoring.

What are some things that you would like to take away from playing hockey?

Hard work and dedication; hockey has shown me how to be a team player and to play for the win, and not for the stats.

How would you encourage others to get out and play hockey?

It’s really fun. Some people don’t think it’s fun by just watching. It’s a good time with your friends, and if you’re competitive, you’ll love it at the end of the day.

Where do you plan to go with your hockey career through high school and college?

It’s my biggest dream, if possible, to play for Michigan. But right now, I plan to play [Division III hockey] for Missouri State.

How has playing hockey impacted your life positively?

When I’m having a bad day, it makes it better. I can have fun, forget about it all, and it can change it all to be better.