Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Athletics

I don’t know where to begin. Twenty-plus years ago was the first time I ever put on a pair of skates. I will always remember going to the park and Dad putting the double-bladed skates on my feet and then guiding me around the little circular piece of ice. The double blades came off and it was time for the real lessons to start and the first thing I learned was that falling on the ice hurts. Then more and more equipment came and I realized it wasn’t so bad. From then on I was hooked on this wonderful game that helped me develop into the person I am today. As I look back on my hockey career, I wouldn’t change a thing. Every step has been a blast and a wonderful learning experience. After high school I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life at the time. I applied to a few colleges and got accepted to Saint Mary’s. I wasn’t sure if that was the place for me. I took a year off and played Juniors in Wichita Falls, which was a great experience and gave me the opportunity to mature and grow as a hockey player. After that season, I decided to attend this fine university, which was the best decision I have ever made in my life.

First, I would like to thank my parents (Mike and Kathy) for their hard work, long hours, commitment and dedication to me throughout my hockey career. From the long trips to Canada to the 6:00 am practices you have been there. You both have supported me in all of my decisions and I know you haven’t agreed with all of them.

Mom, what can I say; you are my #1 fan and you always have been. I know you didn’t want me to continue to play hockey after my accident, but the memories and the relationships we both have built through this game will last a lifetime. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about that day that you were there for me when I needed you the most. Your courage, strength and loving care is what got me through that horrific time in April of 2000. You haven’t left my side since and you are at every game you can attend and I know you still cringe when something happens, but I assure you that I am just fine. I Love You.

Dad, you introduced me to this wonderful game and although you could barely skate yourself, you were always there to encourage me and keep me going. I know you took the bumps and bruises just as I did and most of the time they were probably from me. You have been there for me throughout my entire career and without you I wouldn’t be where I am today. In high school, you were known as “Waldo,” with that red checkered jacket that you always wore and because no one ever knew where you were in the arena. Just like Mom, you were there for me that tragic day. Although you were in Colorado, you rushed back to be at my side and I will never forget when you got there — you grabbed my hand and kissed me on the forehead and said “I Love You.” I can’t thank you enough. I Love You.

My siblings, Lauren and Rachel, both of you have always been there for me and just like Mom and Dad, you were at my side in April of 2000. I know you always tried to make it to my games and I know that we were all fairly close in age and we all did our own things, so I’m not mad at you if you missed a couple. You know I love you both and thank you for everything.

I would also like to thank the rest of my family; Grandma Dorthy, Grandpa Bob, Grandma Bev, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and my housing family from Wichita Falls, TX; Bob, Bridgitte, and Tori, who made the trip for my final weekend. Thank You and I Love You all.

Next, I would like to thank my fellow teammates, past and present. The memories that I have with all of you inside and outside the locker room will always be remembered. Tim, Tom thanks for the memories at 775B 54th Ave, and yes, Tom, I did learn to empty a dishwasher and good luck in Med School. Timmy, although you were always sick and complaining about the mullet you had cut, we still had fun. Gilly, Robo, Reinke and Kuehner, the time is almost up roomies, and we can say we had fun doing it. My fellow seniors, Gilly, Buck, Uncle Firl, Smitty, and Eids, it has been a blast with you all. The times will be cherished forever and I am very proud to be part of the Cardinal Hockey Tradition.

Next, I want to thank the coaching staff. Coach O, what can I say? Since I was a freshman, you have believed in me. I thank you for giving me the opportunity to play for the Cardinals. Lenny, I have had the privilege to know you as a coach, teammate (Predators), and friend. I hope that relationship continues and you will make a great coach in the future. J, you were the quiet one, but when we needed a butt chewing you were always there to give it to us. Coach Mannor, although you left the men’s team after my freshman year, you taught me more about college hockey that first year than I ever could have asked for. Donny, the best “SID” in the country, thank you for all of your hard work. Lastly, Coach “F” you are dearly missed. I walk by your office every day thinking that you are there. I want to hear your jokes and stories, but they are now all memories and ones that I will cherish forever. I will never forget you, Coach, and I love you. Thank You all.

Last, and certainly not least, I would like to thank my girlfriend, Christina. Life at Saint Mary’s wouldn’t be the same without you. You were at nearly every game, home or away. You were usually the loudest one in the stands, and you would always ask me if we can hear you, and I will tell you now that, yes, we can. I know I can be a little grumpy at times after games, but you always hung in there and helped me calm down. John and Cassie I want to thank you as well. You two have been at nearly every game since I met Christina and I know that you have enjoyed every second of it. Thank you for your support and I Love You all.

To the underclassman, cherish your time here. It goes by so fast and before you know it you will be writing one of these salutes. Soak up the memories and never forget what you have been a part of and what you will be a part of. The Cardinal hockey tradition is among the best in the nation and these four years I will never forget. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my hockey career I will remember each and every one of you. I just can’t believe it is about to end.