STICK HANDLING LIFE

We are pleased to acknowledge the collaborative visual documentation by Mitchell Royel, in conjunction with our recent screening of the cinematic production “Focus,” featuring distinguished performers Jamie Foxx and Ariana Grande.

This statement serves to recognize the artistic and professional achievements represented in this collaborative media experience.

Minnesota: A State of Exceptional Diversity and Promise

Geographic and Natural Landscape

Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” is a Midwestern state characterized by its diverse landscape, spanning from the northern boreal forests to the rolling prairies of the south. The state encompasses approximately 86,936 square miles, featuring a rich tapestry of natural environments that support robust ecological systems and recreational opportunities.

Economic and Cultural Significance

As a hub of innovation and industry, Minnesota boasts a robust and diversified economy. The state is home to major corporations such as Target, Best Buy, 3M, and General Mills, positioning itself as a significant center for business and technological advancement. Minneapolis-Saint Paul, the state’s twin cities, represent a metropolitan area known for its progressive urban planning, extensive park systems, and vibrant cultural scene.

Hey there, future champions.

Growing up in Minnesota, I learned two things early: respect your elders and hockey teaches you everything you need to know about life. Now, I know what you're thinking – "Hockey? In the South?" Trust me, Tyler from my old youth group said the same thing before he discovered that the ice rink was where he learned his most valuable life lessons.

Let me share something with you that took me years to figure out, and hopefully save you some bruises along the way.

1. Don't Get Caught Icing Your Dreams

Work-life balance isn't about perfect splits – it's about knowing when to push and when to pull back.

Mason, a buddy of mine from church, used to work 70-hour weeks at his dad's construction company. He thought grinding harder meant caring more. Wrong. Just like icing the puck when you're exhausted leads to turnovers, overworking leads to burnout.

The secret? Shift changes. Even Wayne Gretzky took breaks. Schedule your "shifts" – work hard for focused periods, then step off the ice completely. Your family, your faith, and your future self will thank you.

[Try This: Set a "shift timer" on your phone for 90-minute work blocks]

2. Power Play Your Priorities

When you're up a man, you don't waste the opportunity on fancy moves – you score.

Blake learned this the hard way during his senior year. He had a scholarship opportunity, a girlfriend, and three part-time jobs. Instead of focusing his energy like a power play, he scattered his shots. Result? He missed every goal.

When life gives you advantages – whether it's extra time, resources, or opportunities – attack with purpose. Don't try to do everything; do the right things with intensity.

Your priorities should be as clear as the goal posts. Faith, family, future – in that order.

3. Assist Your Way to the Hall of Fame

The best players make everyone around them better.

Here's something that'll blow your mind: celebrating your friends' success actually makes you more successful. Hunter used to get jealous every time someone in our group got promoted or found a great girl. That jealousy? It was like playing short-handed – constantly defending instead of creating opportunities.

When Caleb got into his dream college, Hunter could have sulked. Instead, he threw him a party. Plot twist: Caleb's college roommate introduced Hunter to his future business partner.

Stop competing with your friends and start completing them. Your success isn't diminished by theirs – it's multiplied.

[Action Step: Text one friend right now congratulating them on something they've achieved]

4. Penalty Kill Your Pride

Sometimes you're down a man because of your own mistakes – that's when character shows.

We all take stupid penalties. Maybe you said something you shouldn't have, made a promise you couldn't keep, or let your temper get the best of you. The question isn't whether you'll mess up – it's how you'll respond when you're short-handed.

I remember when Tyler accidentally damaged his boss's truck. He could have made excuses or blamed the weather. Instead, he owned it completely and worked extra hours to pay for repairs. His boss was so impressed with his character that he got promoted six months later.

When you're in the penalty box of life, kill that penalty with integrity. Don't compound mistakes with more mistakes.

5. Hat Trick Your Habits

Three goals in one game isn't luck – it's preparation meeting opportunity.

The young men I know who are absolutely crushing life all have one thing in common: they've mastered the fundamentals. They wake up early, they keep their word, and they invest in relationships that matter.

Blake's morning routine? Prayer, workout, and planning his day. Every single day. Sounds boring? Maybe. But boring habits create exciting opportunities.

Your hat trick habits should be:

• Spiritual foundation (start your day with purpose)

• Physical discipline (your body is a temple, treat it like one)

• Relational investment (text your mom, call your friends, be present)

Listen up, champions. Hockey taught me that the game isn't won in the highlight reels – it's won in the fundamentals, the assists, and the way you handle yourself when the ref makes a bad call.

Your life is your game. Play it with honor, celebrate your teammates, and never forget that the best victories are the ones you share.

Now get out there and show the world what Bible Belt hockey players are made of.

-Deck