J.D. Shoniker '22 Recruiting Profile

Dear Coaches,

I have had my sights set on playing college hockey since I began playing just AA hockey in Toronto. I remember attending my first NCAA hockey game in the U.S.  -- the speed of the game, the atmosphere of the arena, and the players' skills have all inspired me to work towards the end goal of playing college hockey. As I pursue a post-secondary degree, I plan to continue this pursuit of excellence and passion.

With a relatively late start in hockey at the age of 8, and having lost my father to cancer in September of 2023, I have had to consistently overcome adversity throughout my entire hockey journey. As a result of my unrelenting drive, determination, and most importantly immense passion for the game, I was able to make the jump from house league to junior hockey in a matter of years; I persevered through an extraordinarily difficult time of my life through the 23/24 season. My career thus far has taught me invaluable life skills and lessons: these include discipline, resilience, but most of all the true importance of putting in the work. I remain steadfast in my goal to pursue playing the game at the next level while getting a high-quality education.

Throughout my hockey career, I have had the opportunity to make unexpected playoff runs as an underdog team and win several tournaments, overcoming higher-ranked opponents. These experiences have been the highlights of my time and effort on the ice. I can only imagine the feeling a player has stepping onto the ice in a college hockey arena where the stands are packed and the energy is contagious; giving your all in battle alongside teammates, coaches and staff: brothers and family. 

These experiences have confirmed that I am right where I want to be. As I continue to pursue my academic and athletic goals, I am committed to being a strong contributor and leader to my team and my coaches. I hope to leave whichever college I attend as an alumnus that my teachers and coaches are proud of, and as someone who takes that same work ethic on and off the ice to my future career and beyond.