As a Delano High School graduate, I am proud to be a part of Delano’s first Girls Hockey Team. I began playing hockey at the Delano Area Sports Arena when I was 5 years old. Joining girls’ hockey at age 11, travel was required. Delano did not have a girls program. After traveling for youth, I continued the theme of traveling. Delano High School had a co-op with Buffalo High School for girls’ hockey. I imagine my parents were thrilled when I finally got my driver’s license.
Following high school, I continued competitive hockey career. I didn’t realize it until last hockey season but it was the first time I didn’t have to travel for hockey. This seems extremely ironic as I was far from my actual home. While playing for the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, our home ice was less than a block from my college home. Playing hockey the bulk of my life with this thought of travel required for home ice, I never thought of what it would have been like to play hockey for the actual home team. I think these girls are experiencing something truly special.
I believe that any of the girls on this team that have played for a co-op before, know the feeling. It is good to be home.
I always knew I wanted to find a way to give back to the sport. Hockey had provided me with structure, purpose, friends, and an endless amount of good memories. Beginning my second season with the Tigers, I am excited to continue to provide these girls with the same opportunities my coaches provided me. I understand, first hand, how a coach can influence the success or failure of a team. It is my goal to be fair, consistent, and hold our team to a high level of expectation. Coaching means more than x’s and o’s for me. It is about fostering positive experiences for our team. Hockey gives us so much more than the game. By creating an expectation of hard work, fun, and respect I hope to give the team the best opportunity to reach our goals. Tiger Girls Hockey began paving a road of success from the youth level on up. I believe the dedication of our parents and youth coaches have given us a solid foundation.
The 2017-2018 season is going to be a great one!
Go Tigers!