Ethan Han '24 Recruiting Profile

My name is Ethan Han. I am currently a senior in high school.  My goals in college are to play college hockey while pursuing a degree in software engineering or robotics. 

Born in California to two immigrant parents who both came to United States when they were 11 and 12 years old. My parents did not have the luxury to play club sports when they were young, but they are super supportive of me to develop my own athletic interests.  My dad played football and basketball in high school and through him, I was taught very early on what is sportsmanship and what it takes to be good at what you do. While I realize that there are many candidates with similar experiences or background, the following characteristics are what uniquely set me apart from others:

Optimism

I believe being a positive person is one of my biggest assets, especially in a stressful situation such as when your team is down while playing in a game.  I am able to remain calm and focused no matter how difficult the game has been.  I would reflect on what I did wrong after the game and restart fresh to get ready for the next game.  I will not let my own emotions affect my team.      

Commitment

When I set my goal for something, I am 100% committed to make that happen.  Of all the hockey teams I have played on, I have never been absence (except if I am sick) to practices or games.  I have great respect for my coaches and value their time spent with me.  In the case of my Taekwondo Blackbelt 4^th degree.  This was one of my goals ever since I achieved my first blackbelt when I was 7 years old.  I started practicing TKD at the age of 4 and it took me a total of 11 years to earn the 4^th degree belt.  During this entire journey, I stayed focus and committed and now I can check off this goal from my bucket list. 

 Team Player

Hockey is a team sport.  I understand my role and will perform my job to the best of my ability.  Communication among the players is so important for me during a game as my teammates sometimes are not able to see clearly what’s going on around them.  I always try to provide good communication by calling out loudly to alert them.  One of my former coaches once told me that my team could not ask for a better teammate.  It is my belief that amazing results can be achieved only when the team works together; like the saying, “teamwork makes the dream work.” 

Willingness to Learn

My parents taught me that there is always room for improvement.  I think the continuance to cultivate my skills is such a priority for me even if I am accepted into the team of my dream.  Whenever a coach asked me to help or participate in an extra game or practice, I seldom said no and would consider those as opportunities for me to improve my skills.