Jeffrey Colton Sands '15 Recruiting Profile

    Sports have always been a pivotal part of my character and defines who I am.  My overall goal is to play hockey at the highest level I can as long as I can.  I am always striving to be the best on that team and move forward -  always setting goals for myself like to make the starting lineup, or a league all star game, or to bring my best to every practice.  I also know that it takes a team to win, so I hold my myself accountable and my teammates to the same high standard.  I try to push myself and help my teammates become better players and I expect them to do the same to me.  I know that in order to be the best player I can be I have to train off the ice just as hard as I train on it. In order to do this I practice with some of the top athletes in Michigan at my gym 2SP, and will review game film whenever it's available.  As a player I hate to lose more than I love to win, I never play with a "we'll get them next time" mentality. I always strive to be an impact player on the ice.  Because of this attitude I step up to the challenge when playing against older and more experienced players - always trying to take my game to the next level of competition and don't back down from any challenge.

    Knowing how lucky I am to play this sport I enjoy giving back as well. Most every weekend my teammates and I travel to inner city Detroit and run a learn to skate program for several hours. Many of the children cannot afford their own equipment so we help collect and maintain all donated equipment.

    My plan is to obtain a degree in political science and to pursue a career in politics or international affairs. I have always enjoyed debate, learning from other's opinions, and traveling the U.S. and abroad.  In short, I'm passionate about this career choice because of the rich history in politics and the fact that current domestic and international policies are always evolving.  Politics and current events always keep me in touch with the world outside of hockey.  I believe this best defines my academic interest and athletic goals, I am always looking forward to the next lesson the next bit of knowledge in order to become a better person, student, and athlete.