Neil Pretorius '23 Recruiting Profile

I fell in love with ice hockey the moment I was introduced to it on a pond in Alaska, during a family vacation. I was so exited to get to the rink in the mornings, that I would go wake up my parents at 5am, fully dressed in my gear including helmet. Not much changed since as my life revolves around Ice hockey, and when I am not watching plays of my favorite players, I am shooting, stick handling or skating. Hockey has given me purpose and helped me be disciplined in my academic endeavors also. I love the game and desire to take it as far as my determination and talent can take me.

I don’t just love playing, I also enjoy teaching the next generation of hockey players. For the past two years I have helped coach learn to play programs, and go to stick and puck session helping out with younger players on the ice.

I believe it’s important to be balanced in sport and I supplement my hockey training with rugby and Brazilian Jiu jitsu. Whilst living in Australia I won a state championships in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for my age category. My academic performance also remains very important to me. This year I moved to an online NCAA approved college prep online school to provide me with the right level of academic support whilst providing me with the flexibility I need to grow the game I love.

In my Bantam years I was appointed captain of my team two years in a row. This was not only a great privilege but also a great test, pushing me beyond my comfort zone. Being captain allowed me to learn how to help motivate my team, stand up for what is right, and also communicate with coaches and referees. In my second Bantam year (2019), I was also awarded “Top Rep Player Award” for the Seattle Junior Hockey Association.

My coaches have always described me as a hard worker, quick learner being able to improve my game continuously. I am exited about the next chapter in my journey and the sport I love.

Coach Reference

To Whom it May Concern:

I had the opportunity to coach Neil during the 2018-19 hockey season at
Seattle Junior Hockey Association.  

Neil was one of the team's top defenseman that season and played a large
roll in power plays and shorthanded situations.  His attitude at practice,
dryland, pre-game, during game, and post-game was above approach.  Neil was
one of the few players that always gave 110% on and off the ice. He worked
harder at his game than any other and it is this characteristic that makes
Neil a coach's dream player.

Neil is a leader and a great teammate.   I would coach him again if given
the opportunity.

Sincerely,

Coach Alan McMillan