Our family recently moved to Shakopee. Hockey is more than a common thread in our lives, as my wife, Brooke, plays hockey with the MN Whitecaps while coaching youth hockey. She is embarking on her 16th year with the squad. We have two boys, Blake (5th) and Beau (3rd), who enjoy hockey and baseball, soccer, and football. I am entering year 26 as a referee. I have been fortunate to officiate in the MSHSL state tournament and two NCAA D-III National Championships.
What do you like most about BA?
I love the competitive mindset the students bring each day. Knowing they want to be their best every day challenges me to find ways to support that aspiration.
Why is it important to have solid academics in addition to good hockey training?
Academics are the foundation for the student’s future. The BA academic platform provides students with several ways to learn – something they will use throughout their lifetime. Combining a challenging and individualized learning environment in the classroom and on the ice leads to a more well-rounded student-athlete as they progress.
Which coach or teacher had the biggest impact on your life and why?
My high school math teacher, Mr. Cody, had the most significant impact on my academic career and life lessons. His creative approach to delivering math lessons was genius. He encouraged small group learning outside of the classroom and inspired excellence through unique games with sports themes – bringing out the competitive fire in all of us.
What is your favorite hockey memory?
As a player, beating South St. Paul at the Coliseum in OT to qualify for the state high school tourney was incredible. A bonus was getting to play in the MSHSL state tourney when it was still one class, and the boards were clear at the Civic Center. Officiating, being on the ice for Grant Besse’s hat trick in the state title game vs. Jake Guentzel’s HM Pioneers tops the chart.
What are your credentials and hockey experience?
I have been involved in hockey since I was four years old. Playing HS and college, then evolving into an official and now coach – hockey continues to be in my blood. Officiating at the D-I level, I was fortunate to learn from some of the best coaches (Jeff Sauer, Dave Hakstol, Don Lucia) on how they approach the game. From a training perspective, I have been a trainer at ETrain for eight years – ranging from strength and athleticism to hockey treadmill instruction.