I love hockey. I love watching the game, playing the game, talking about the game, learning more about the game, and I love goaltending. Ever since I first watched Niemi play for the Chicago Blackhawks eight years ago, I was fascinated. The look, the speed, the ability to make cat-like reflexes, and the character of a goalie appealed to me. My childhood dream was to be like Niemi, to throw on the pads and to play on ice. That was eight years ago. I am now playing my fifth year on ice. Hockey is a love of my life. It helps me escape stresses beyond the glass. I see my teammates as fellow soldiers, fighting the enemy until victory. I am protective, just as any goalie should be. I protect my crease, myself, and of course my fellow teammates. I am a serious contender. If you see me, you most likely would see me stretching, warming up, meditating/praying, and/or talking to a fellow friend to keep my nerves steady and calm. I see the mental side of goaltending important. You can be the most fit physical goalie in the world, but your mind is most important to care for. I am quiet, but respectful. I may lose my temper, but I try my absolute best to stay calm and positive on&off the ice. I’m athletic, I have played baseball, football, basketball, lacrosse, hockey, and volleyball through my lifetime. I try, not for the scouts or that cute girl in the bleachers. I try for my family, who has sacrificed so much for me to live my dream. I try for my team, who has stood up for me and supported me through my career. I try, for myself. I want the absolute best out of my own life in hockey. My goal is to reach the junior level and then strive for a college team, and then hopefully professional hockey. I am confident in myself. I see my flaws and my strengths. I do not let my flaws outweigh my strength. Overall, hockey has changed my life. I dream of a brighter future. I am working on my craft to build the future I want. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Matt Sigrist