2026 | Minnesota |

White Bear Lake Area High School | Bears |

I am honored to nominate Olivia Simpkins for the Hobey Baker Award. As a senior captain this season, Olivia exemplified everything this award represents. She is a natural leader whose impact on our program extends far beyond the ice.

Olivia leads in a way that makes others better. Players consistently share how much they learn from her, not just in skill development, but in mindset, preparation, and accountability. She creates an environment where every teammate feels valued and welcomed. Her presence builds confidence in younger players and trust within our locker room. She has earned deep respect from her teammates because she lives out the standards she sets.

What stands out most about Olivia is her team-first mentality. No matter what role she was asked to play throughout her career, she embraced it fully and inspired others to do the same. She understands that leadership is not about recognition, but about service. She consistently put the needs of the team ahead of her own and modeled selflessness in both big and small moments.

Leading into her senior year, Olivia battled through an injury that could have easily shifted her focus inward. Instead, she remained steady and committed. She showed resilience, perspective, and gratitude for the opportunity to compete. Her response to adversity strengthened not only her but the entire team.

Olivia represents the very best of our program. Her character, resilience, humility, and commitment to her teammates embody what the Hobey Baker Character Award stands for. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.