Hope Crisafi '20 Recruiting Profile

I have had many memorable hockey experiences, but playing the district game in Pittsburgh with the Gilmour Gladiator U16 tier 2 team sophomore year was a turning point for me. We did not make it past the first round, and the loss motivated me to make a decision.  I would have to put in extra time, work hard, and take the game more seriously if I wanted to improve. Many sessions with my goalie coach followed. My desire to make it back to Tier 1 drove my work and led to a position on a Tier 1 AAA team in the 2018-19 season.

Another great growing experience is my team’s annual tournament at Harborcenter.  Every year we play tough Canadian teams, along with talented regional programs. Whether we win or lose, I realize that taking shots from those highly-skilled players really helps me improve and exposes me to hockey at a higher level.  I have learned many things about myself over the years. I have strong determination and thick skin. I don’t dwell on a great save but I don’t get stuck when a puck gets by me, either. I am quick to leave bad experiences behind, as long as I have learned from them.  A key positive quality my coaches have noticed is that I am an uplifting team member. I enjoy doing special crafts and events for my teammates to build team camaraderie. I also have a good sense of humor, I am very coachable and, as a goalie, I am a true team player, putting my body on the line to defend the team.

Along with victories, I have had my share of challenges on the ice. The challenges have helped me become a better goalie and a more focused, patient person in all other aspects of my life. The discipline I have learned from hockey will also will help me in my professional career as I plan to study somewhere in the field of science, for example in medicine, nursing or engineering.  Of all the other sports I have played (lacrosse, soccer, horseback riding, field hockey, softball), hockey has been the most demanding; both on my body and study time. Time management has been especially crucial when the lacrosse season overlaps with hockey. I have to push myself to keep up with sports and schoolwork (and get a decent amount of sleep). I know my academic achievements and desire to study science, along with my skill as a goaltender, are qualities that will benefit your school and your team. I hope that you will strongly consider my application as I will not let you down.  I am excited to hear from you.