Tell us about your hometown, family and hobbies.

I was born in Edmonton, Alberta and currently live in Sherwood Park, Alberta. I have a younger brother and sister who play hockey and ringette, and I have two amazing parents who are the biggest supporters in my life. Growing up in Sherwood Park has provided me with a great education, excellent sports knowledge and a healthy environment to grow up in. 

How did you originally begin playing hockey (what age as well) and what is your favorite memory from when you were younger?

I began playing hockey at the age of four years old. I would always watch hockey games with my dad and I remember being so excited every single time to see the action in the games. I knew that hockey was right for me ever since I strapped on my first pair of skates and from there on I knew it would be my passion. My favorite memory playing hockey was probably in the Spring of 2018, where my spring hockey team won gold in the AAA Spring Classic Tournament. Our team was not expected to win or even make a showing but we persevered, worked hard together as a team and came out on top.

Who is your favorite NHL player and who do you model your game after? Why?

My favorite NHL player is Carey Price, as he is the best goalie in the league and gives it his all every game. I am an inherited Habs fan from my Dad so that got me watching a lot of Montreal games, As I watched the Habs, I loved watching defenceman, P.K. Subban. He is a big solid guy with a great on and off ice work ethic. When I step on the ice though, I like to model myself after Shea Weber. He has a big shot, is strong and tall, can shut down the best in the defensive end and he contributes in the offensive end as well.

What team did you play for? What was your favorite part from the season?

I just finished my first year with Pilot Mound Hockey Academy U17 Prep. We only got to play a handful of games due to COVID-19 but I still had a great year of development, which I am thankful for. My favorite part of the season was probably playing in my first ever CSSHL game against Rink U18 Prep. The game was extremely fast and physical, and I realized this is the team I am proud to play with. I look forward to next year being a ‘back to normal’ season and being able to put my new skills to use.

What are your top goals as a student athlete? Why are they your top goals?

My top goals as a student athlete are to continue developing my hockey skills to the best level possible, as well as learning more in the classroom while keeping my grades to a high standard. These are both top goals for me as having success in school is very important to me, as well as making myself a strong and dynamic hockey player. In Pilot Mound, they promote strong academics while bringing out our potential to be the best hockey player we can be.

How important is school from your perspective? Why is it that way?

School is extremely important to me as I believe that a good education will help guide you through life and give you direction. When my hockey career is done, what I accomplished in school will take me to the next step in my life. Hockey is not guaranteed, especially if you get injured and are unable to continue playing. You learn a lot of important topics in school that will help you become a successful individual, which is invaluable. 

What would it mean to you to play at the NCAA or Pro level?

It would mean everything to compete at the NCAA or professional level. Ever since I watched my first hockey game, I knew that I wanted to make it to the pros. For a very long time, I have dreamed of playing in the NCAA, where I can reach both my academic goals as well as developing my hockey skills in some of the best programs out there. Everyday I work my hardest with that dream in mind and it would be such a surreal feeling to be there. 

What separates you as a player or person? How do you continue to get better?

I believe that as a person, I am very kind and considerate with a lot of character. I bring others up and make sure that I am always respectful and on my best behavior all the time. As a player, I think that I separate myself from others by being a strong, solid player who can shut down anyone in the defensive zone, play a physical game, making good plays when under pressure, and using my big shot to help contribute on the attack. I respect my coaches and am not afraid to ask questions on and off the ice. I realize that I can learn something new from them every time I step on the ice. I continue to get better by training everyday and getting on the ice as much as possible. When I train or practice, I focus on certain parts of my game so I can improve myself as a person and as a player.

What impact are you looking to have in your sports career? (Community, team, success, etc)

I want to be an impactful player who can make a difference out on the ice for whatever team I play for. I also want to be a player that coaches are able to rely on and use in critical situations. I plan on continuing to also be the best teammate that I can be out there, as I have seen how having good chemistry amongst your teammates is vital to success. Hockey is a team sport and is only as good as the sum of its parts.  And lastly, I want to be the best out there and I am determined and motivated to do so. 

One fun fact about you.

One fun fact about myself is that I was born on Canada Day! I get fireworks every year and I think that it’s pretty cool to share my birthday with my country.