Personal Statement
My journey began with the first time on skates being in August 2012. My father met a former NHL player, Craig Conroy, and they connected based on similarity of training and team approach with military. My parents signed me up to a 'competitive' hockey camp without knowing what that meant, bought a hockey-box and let me go. Despite being barely able to stand, I continued to work through the camp and learn basics. I was 'all smiles' and remember enjoying the experience. I was fortunate that my parents met Pat Malloy at Peak Academy, a former Buffalo Sabres skate coach, during the same week and decided to register me in their Long-term Athletic Development (LTAD) program.
I worked for several years to learn to skate with Pat, despite being consistently picked on, or challenged, by my AAA 'peers'. I continued to train at Peak Academy, putting in 1200+ hours annually, plus summer training and league play from that point onward. My academics had never been a problem, my parents have told me they wanted me to have balance through sports, as I was excelling academically. (I average 85-95% "A "student enrolled in academic program)
I have a focus on work ethic, dedication and coach-ability. I have strong academics and further provide support to my peers where needed in this area.
I have great skating skill and hands and I have learned the game. I am working on improving my physical capabilities as my body continues to grow; now reaching close to 5'11. I have billeted for three years, moved 4 times in the last 5 years, including a move across North America. I have changed school each year in the last 4 and continue to thrive in different environments. I am adaptable and can focus, despite changes in my environment. I want to find a team and a coach to work with on my LTAD program in order to reach my potential in the game of hockey, my academic studies and life.
For career after hockey, I plan to become a doctor with my goal currently set on becoming a surgeon. The first step is to take Honours Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related science program. I have already been accepted to several top Canadian engineering universities, with scholarship, on an academic basis. However, I would like to continue to play hockey while studying.