James Kirk '16 Recruiting Profile

Hello, I’m James, and have been a goalie since I was 4 years old. I’ve played with the Flagstaff Arizona North Stars in their Mite, Squirt, Pee Wee and Bantam leagues.  We have played teams from Arizona, Colorado, California, Nevada, New Mexico and Canada. Our teams have competed in numerous tournaments, with success. I have been moved up to play with teams older than me, which has really motivated me to constantly better myself, and my team. Flagstaff Az. made a decision to drop the Midget Program, and go with the Arizona High School Hockey Association.  The new team, Flagstaff Avalanche, has been a powerhouse. Coach Denny Lauritsen has guided the new program to great heights.

Our team won the state D1 high school league and state championship in 2015, securing a spot at the US Hockey Nationals in March 2015, in St Louis, Mo.

This year we again won the Arizona High School Hockey League.  On February 04, 2016 I made the All State Team and All Arizona Team by the Arizona High School Hockey Association (AHSHA).  I currently attend Coconino High School in Flagstaff. I have served as a youth peer leadership counselor, and have taken many AP courses to prepare myself for college.  I have lettered both academically and athletically.  As a Freshman I played soccer and track, but realized my love for hockey.  To play for a college team, in the front of the net, is my dream.  My ultimate goal is to have a career in sports medicine.  In the offseason, I lifeguard, enjoying helping kids and older, learn to swim.

I have strong leadership skills, am highly motivated, stay committed to my goals, remain highly coachable, and look forward to helping others.

Thank you for your consideration!

A letter of Reference from my High School Coach Denny Lauritsen:

To Whom It May Concern,

                  I am writing this letter of recommendation in regards to James Kirk.  I have known James “Jimmy” since 2007.  I have had the privilege of being his hockey coach for seven years here in Flagstaff, Arizona.  Being we are small hockey community, I have had the chance to follow his hockey career fairly closely throughout, including the last four years as his high school hockey head coach.  Jimmy exemplifies the importance of hard work, leadership and dedication.  Jimmy is currently the starting goalie for our defending State Champion D1 team.  Jimmy is an extremely patient individual, and is not easily discouraged.  Despite being one of the most talented players on the ice at any one time, he diligently helps his teammates through positive encouragement, and discipline as well as with an edge when needed.  He is a true leader on and off the ice.  Thank you for your consideration.

Denny Lauritsen

Flagstaff Avalanche D1

Head Coach