Meet Matthew Kuhnlein 
Central Zone Rockets U18 AA (OMAHA)
“6,0” 165 Pounds- Goaltender
2005 DOB

 

Tell us about your hometown, family, and hobbies

I was originally born in Calgary then moved to Vernon for a good portion of my life, but now I live in Kelowna. 

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 like any other kid, just for the fun of the game around 4 years old. My favorite memory would be either going to Chicago for the Triple Crown tournament or winning our home tournament in peewee minor hockey with Vernon. We had over 1000 fans come out to support us!

What team do/did you play for?  What was your favorite part of the season?

I play for the Central Zone Rockets and affiliate with the North Okanagan Knights. My favorite part has to be just being around my teammates and having fun while improving and getting better. As well, with North Okanagan Knight I have been enjoying learning from the older guys and playing at a Jr. level.

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

My #1 goal is to play pro hockey but to do that I need a scholarship to a school, hopefully in the US for a long-term outlook. For short term, I want to do the best I can at my level and get recognized by Jr. teams to make the jump I need to with my development.

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

School is important because you can always utilize your education and turn it into a job once hockey is done. 

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

It would mean a lot to me to play at a division 1 school, and a lot to my parents. We have also seen many of our billets go to D1 schools so that would make it even better.

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

I feel the fact I can take time off when needed and not always focus on hockey makes me a better player and person.

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

I want to show people that anyone can do what they want if they work hard enough.

One fun fact about yourself.

One fun fact about myself I would say is that I am very superstitious before and during games.