“We're all told at some point in time that we can no longer play the children's game, we just don't... don't know when that's gonna be. Some of us are told at eighteen, some of us are told at forty, but we're all told.” - Moneyball
It is hard to believe that it is all coming to an end, but I can’t say I regret anything I’ve done while being a part of this program. I apologize in advance for those I forget or don’t mention, all the coaches, players, and parents I’ve met throughout my hockey career and hockey life have made an impact on my career at some point in time.
I’d like to start by thanking my parents, without you guys supporting me I would’ve never made it anywhere. I know sending your son to a private school 9 hours away from home probably wasn’t what you were expecting, but I can never thank you enough for supporting me. Whether it was making the haul down to see me, or to wherever we were playing even if I wasn’t playing.
I’d also like to thank the coaching staff for giving me a chance to play and develop in this program. I know that I didn’t take the path most chosen, coming in as a true freshman, but if you guys wouldn’t have kept me on the JV team, I wouldn’t be around or be the person and player I am today. It was tough on me not to play hockey this year being a senior, but I thank you for giving me the opportunity to stay around and do whatever the guys needed to help them succeed.
Devin Firl and Scott Oliver, you guys influenced my career more than you’ll ever know. Scott, you taught me to be humble, and work hard in everything I do. Playing in the shadows growing up wasn’t easy, but giving me an opportunity to play because I had earned it, is something I’ll never forget. Firl, you taught me how to succeed and win college hockey games, even if it meant stopping 35-40 shots. You were always there for anything I needed, hockey advice, life advice, or just someone to chew the fat with. Thank you.
Ambjor and Jill, thanks for the help during my “band-aid” stages. Jill thanks for letting me hangout in the training room every single day, instead of being productive. I know you’re going to miss me, but I’ll try making it back once in awhile.
My Roommates: Beau, Horsty, Scheib, Mike, Al and Julie, you guys made for some days and nights I’ll never forget. Thanks for always willing to have a good time.
Whitney, Jen, Amanda, thanks for the delicious team meals on Thursdays. Laura (Mrs.Hill), you make the best tacos around.
Max, thanks for taking time out of your schedule to drive down and meet with us. Your influence has helped me and many of the guys this year. Keep on preaching brother.
Vinny and Josh, thanks for showing us freshman the ropes. I’m sure it wasn’t ideal waking up to find me sleeping on your couch 5 days a week, but your influences on me are something I’ll never forget.
I also, want to wish the other seniors the best of luck in the future.
Jason- I know you’ll probably just run the show at your alma mater, to remain unnamed, but until you officially start doing that, good luck. It was fun being roomies for awhile, sorry my Mononucleosis was too much to handle.
Kevin- It’s hard to believe were not jamming in LaSalle anymore, or having a good time at Sioux House. Hopefully I’ll make it to the heights one of these times. If not we’ll meet in the middle at Bill’s.
Andy- it has been interesting living together for the last two years. A lot of memories we will never forget, and a few we’ll choose to forget. I wish you the best in the future.
Nick- I know that you just transferred in last year, but I don’t think anyone who actually doesn’t know that would even notice. It’s been great getting to know you, and be a teammate for a short time. I wish you the best of luck in whatever you choose to do.
All my current, and former teammates, Thank you for welcoming me into the program and being guys I could count on for anything, and of course being guys that liked to get rowdy, whether at Bro’s, Step Bro’s, or the B.A.N.K. I wish all of you the best in the future.
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