2022 | Minnesota | BOYS

Spring Lake Park | Panthers | BOYS

I have had the privilege of coaching Ben as a member of the Spring Lake Park High School Men’s Hockey Team for the past 3 seasons. Over that time, I have developed a strong relationship with Ben and have gotten to know him very well as a player and person. In that time, it has become clear to me that Ben is one of the highest character kids that I have ever had the pleasure of coaching. From day one, he has impressed me with his demeanor and the way that he conducts himself at and away from the rink. Ben is our team captain and the epidemy of a leader in all aspects of his life. He is an excellent student, a great role model in the community, and the heartbeat of our hockey team. Ben possesses many attributes that set him apart from other young adults, however, what sticks out the most is his maturity level. After one conversation with Ben, you would think he is a 25-year-old college graduate just getting started in his career. Come to find out, he is actually 18 and finishing up high school while looking forward to life’s next challenge. Ben has the unique ability to hold conversation and connect with grown adults at a much higher level than others his age. In my short experience, this is very rare amongst high school seniors and is indicative of the inevitable success to come in Ben’s future. To put it another way, if I were asked to hire one current or former student athlete in my profession or to my coaching staff, Ben would be my first call. Ben has had a fantastic senior season to this point and I cannot wait to see what’s next for him.