Matthew Paling '23 Recruiting Profile

My ambition in life is to attend college and play hockey at a high level. I plan on pursuing a degree in Education. Having two older brothers who played hockey, it seemed only natural for me to play. I have been on the ice since I was three years old and being on the ice is where I truly feel at home.  Opportunities were sometimes limited because of finances, but that has never stopped me.  In addition to my own teams, my brothers’ coaches would often allow me to practice with their teams.

It is on the ice that I have learned my most valuable life lessons.  Hockey has taught me the importance of respecting my coaches, teammates, opponents, and myself. It is here that I have learned to be a more responsible person. It has taught me the importance of managing my time efficiently in order to ensure I am successful both on the ice and in the classroom.  Most importantly, I have learned about teamwork and leadership. I understand it is not always just about being the best player, but more importantly to be the best teammate. For me personally, hockey has always been the place where I have built my strongest friendships. Whether it is playing in an intense championship game, or pick-up hockey on the bog the people I play with have become like family.

I think if you were to ask my coaches what kind of hockey player I am they would tell you I am a fierce competitor with speed and strength.  I have strong stick-handling and puck control skills with the ability to shoot the puck. But what sets me apart from the others is my ability to gain the respect of my teammates and inspire them to play their best hockey.

 Although playing in the NHL has always been a dream of mine, I still understand the importance of pursuing a higher education and I am continually striving to excel both in the classroom and on the ice. Hockey has shaped the person I am today and I will be forever grateful for my time on the ice.