Jake Gifford '22 Recruiting Profile

Playing college hockey has always been one of my goals.  When I made the U8 AAA Boston Advantage team I was determined to work as hard as I could every day to get better at the game of hockey. I remember seeing college hockey players and NHL players put so much work into getting better as players and as individuals. Their work ethic, leadership, and aspiration made me want to follow the same path they were taking to become the best hockey player I could be.  My love for the game of hockey is something I want to keep with me for the rest of my life.

    I feel that playing Bantam hockey with the Carolina Jr. Hurricanes has prepared me to balance the workload of academics with practice, games, and travel. I have maintained a 3.125 GPA through my Freshman year of high school at Green Hope High where I take honors classes. I have excellent self-discipline and time management skills. My work ethic, leadership skills, and my ability to be kind and coachable are characteristics my teachers and coaches have often commented on.

    What makes me different from others is my passion for the game. I always want to win, but there are times when you encounter a bigger, faster, and stronger team. After those tough games, I want to realize while sitting in the locker room that I have no regrets and I worked my hardest on the ice. I feel being kind and having respect for others are the two things you should always give your family, coaches, teammates, teachers, and friends. The main thing you can have as a hockey player if you're really good or not good at all is ATTITUDE. This applies to everyday life, not just for playing hockey. Having a good attitude, mindset, and always giving respect to your coaches and teammates are three things that should be present at all times. 

    I've been fortunate enough to see my favorite college hockey team the Boston College Eagles win the national championship in 2012. I've seen my favorite NHL hockey team, the Boston Bruins win the Stanley Cup in 2011. Those experiences give me the motivation to work harder on and off the ice. They make me want to improve my hockey skills and improve my grades in school so I can make it to the same level as them. I can only imagine taking that picture with the Stanley Cup or the NCAA Division I hockey trophy.

    I have been fortunate enough to participate in multiple County Cups and multiple Town Cups.  All of these experiences have shown me that I can do anything I want to do if I work hard and put my mind to whatever I'm trying to accomplish.  I am committed to keep doing well in school and be the best competitor and leader to my teammates and coaches.