Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Athletics

Hockey to me has been more than just a sport, but rather a way of life. When I first started playing, I never knew it would lead me to a college education. I still remember my first day on campus here at SMU, and the anxious feeling about not knowing what the next four years would bring. From the first couple days of captain’s practice, to my final game senior year, being at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota has been quite an experience. I have grown a lot both on and off the ice, and I have become a better student, person, and athlete. It seems like time has flown by since my first days, and now that it’s coming to an end, I am so thankful for everything that has happened. Looking back, I could not see things go any differently, nor would I want it to be so.

I’d like to start by thanking my family. I would not be here if it were not for their acceptance and guidance. I want to thank my dad for pushing me into hockey. From a young age, my dad allowed me to try different sports. He told me that hockey was the only sport that didn’t come naturally to me, and that is why I wanted to quit. He kept me interested by telling stories of the NHL, and taking me out for slurpees and hockey cards after practice. He worked with me on the ice, and also in the garage at our house. The thing I am most grateful for is that he knew when to be a coach, and when to be a parent. The lessons he taught me made me the man I am today. I’d like to thank my mother for allowing me to play hockey. Since I was young, she was against me playing because she didn’t want to see her baby get hurt. Even though she had her doubts, she let me do what I want. She even allowed me to move away and go play juniors across the country in Texas at 15. To this day, she still says I owe her three years because I moved out too soon. Thank you mom for allowing me the freedom to choose my own path.

I would like to thank the coaching staff: Bill Moore, Ryan Egan, and J Reszka for the four years of they have had to put up with me. From the tweaking of my game to how to conduct myself off the ice, they have helped me grow a great deal in the time I’ve spent here. It all started when they came to the WSHL showcase in Las Vegas. I was sold instantly by the honesty and conviction in which they spoke. “We went 1 and 24 last year!” They told me that the tradition of SMU athletics was not what it used to be and the perception of athletes was not as positive as it should be. Being a part of 13 incoming freshmen was exciting not just for the hockey aspect, but also the community aspect. All of the other freshmen and I were similar in that we had lots of junior experience, and were all new to the college experience. In our four years, we have changed the perception of the hockey players, and have also improved on the ice. I thank all of the coaches for allowing me to be a part of that rebuilding process and the changing of culture here at SMU.

Thank you to the SMU community. In my time here, I have met a great deal of people that I know will be lifelong friends.  I appreciate all the support I have received from classmates as well as Winona natives. Having a full barn always makes a player feel special, and knowing a majority of the people filling the seats makes it all the better. From the teachers to Brother William, and from classmates to local Winona youth players, thank you for all the love and support. Thank you to Brooke also. She has been a big part of my life at college since day one freshman year. I couldn’t have asked for a better girlfriend or best friend.

Finally, I would like to thank all of the boys. Nothng will ever do justice in describing the memories made with the brothers on the team. I know that every single player I’ve played with will be a part of my life forever. It would be impossible to mention everyone in this short farewell, but I do have to give a few significant shout-outs. First to my Rhino brothers Nicky G and Ketts. It has been a fun ride these past 6-7 years, and I am glad we have got to play together through juniors and college. I know Mur would be proud to see us together still. To Denney, I don’t think I will meet another guy quite like you. I still remember hating you that first time we met, and soon enough we became best friends and roommates. Deur, Robo, and Wolter. All I can say is I am so glad we got a house. You three are truly great friends and I couldn’t have asked for better roommates. I can already see us chirping each other when we are old and senile. To the old vets that were upperclassmen when I was a freshman, thank you for teaching me about college. To the young guys, thanks for making us old seniors feel great and sending us off the right way. Couldn’t have asked for a better group of freshmen, sophomore, and junior classes to end my career with.

Good luck to everyone at SMU in the future. I know that this university has a great deal of potential, and leads to successful lives for all those involved. I know I will stay a part of the Saint Mary's University of Minnesota community forever. Thank you!