I am from Mankato, Minnesota and I attended Mankato East High School where I participated in hockey and golf. After finishing high school, I began my Junior Hockey career where I had the opportunity to travel the United States playing hockey with the goal of reaching the collegiate level. I am currently a Freshman at the University of Dubuque where I study Aviation. I chose to represent the University of Dubuque as a member of the University’s Hockey team where I play forward. Physical and mental health has always been a major focus in my life growing up and playing hockey. All athletes understand playing a contact sport can put your body at risk of injury, but many do not look at what an injury can do to your mental health. While playing hockey, I have had to navigate through many hurdles such as injuries and moving away from home at a young age. These hurdles have shown me how important not only your physical health is but also the burden that can put on your mental health as well. I have put a bigger focus on my mental health, and this has allowed me to make better decisions which has allowed my body to also benefit from these choices. The hockey rink has always been a place I am able to go where I feel comfortable and safe. My teammates end up feeling like family and I know they are always there to help me in any way necessary. Being a part of a team has been a great way for me to improve my mental health and allow for further growth not only on the ice, but it has also taught me life lessons that will stay with me forever. Athletics have allowed me to grow as a person and mature while doing so in a positive mental mindset.
