2022 | Indiana | BOYS

Bishop Noll Institute | Warriors | BOYS

Character is defined as the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. Jake Kiebles has character. As a freshman, Jake came to our team as a small and eager goaltender. He was added during a blind search for goaltenders, so he and his family did not know anyone in our Organization. In fact, Jake is from Illinois and we are an Indiana school. His quickness, skill, and play in the game wowed us as coaches. Jake’s play in the games constantly pushed our upperclassmen goaltender. However, two issues Jake had were his work ethic in practice and his commitment to his fundamentals. He relied on his athletic ability to take over in a game. But that sometimes meant he allowed bad goals after a series of unbelievable saves. The coaching staff talked to Jake about being more committed to fundamentals and his play in practice. He respected what we said and changed his practice effort and detail to his fundamentals. Now his practice play pushes the other, younger goalies.

It is not just his work ethic and playing ability that defines his character, but how he displays this on and off the ice. Jake’s mental awareness and attitude was tested last year and this year. He competes with another goaltender on our team who is currently a junior. Both are extremely capable of getting the job done, and both are extraordinary goalies. The tandem have combined for a 18-7-1 record this season and a 1.56 GAA. Jake’s numbers to date are 930% a 1.67 GAA and 3 Shut-Outs. But it is tough for a senior to share time. However, it is Jake’s positive attitude, camaraderie, and betterment of the team that has shown Jake is willing to put the team ahead of everything else. Also, Jake has been pushed at times this season with several serious incidents – a death in his family, having to miss games due to COVID, and missing due to other fall sports which all has limited some of his ice time this season. That being said, Jake still gets his fair share of the load when it comes to playing time. He is a big part of us going from barely a Top 20 program in the State when he was a freshmen to being in the Top 5 now. He is very supportive of his teammates whether they are forwards, defenseman, or the other two goalies on our team. Jake has been a pleasure to coach, and I look forward to see him continue to grow as a person after high school.