Maiah Skluzacek '23 Recruiting Profile

In many ways than one, I am different from other recruits. One huge difference is that the 20-21 hockey season is my fourth season playing hockey, but with that in mind it should show you how hard I am willing to work and the determination I have. Being a "late bloomer" in hockey, of course has its struggles, but my true fire and passion for the sport has shown through.  I have perfected skills in incredible amount of time, and for the your college team I will never stop working hard. My character on and off the ice is one of positivity and encouragement. In games my team can always look to me to cheer them up no matter the score. I am a firm believer that positivity will help increase gameplay, and I can be hard from the bench cheering on my team, as well as saying "We can get that one back" if we are down. I always welcome people and I am quick to make them feel included in the group. I try my hardest to create a good mood, which sometimes can end in me singing, dancing, or telling light hearted jokes. A biggest part of my character in academics and on the ice is my hard work. In achedemics I maintain a high GPA and put a ton of pride in my work. I am the same way on the ice. Coaches I have worked with in the past have commented on the way I always work hard, and how I am very coachable. 

I would be a good candidate for your hockey team because I am a 200 foot player. I am not scared to get down and dirty in front of the net to knock in some garbage goals, but I will also hustle back to back-check the other team. I am a very aware forward who always knows where the puck is. As a forward, I am quick to react to the play and will instantly step in for a defense if they get caught down low in the their zone.  My head is always up looking to hit one of my teammates with a pass. I play a clean game, in my previous seasons I have gotten no more than two penalties, while in this season I have zero penalties. I take pride that I play a clean , but also a competitive game. 

Being able to play hockey in college, would be a huge accomplishment for me. My life goal is to play hockey as long as I can. My biggest goal is to be a student athlete, but with a big emphasis on the student part. My team will always be a huge priority in my life, but my academics will always come first. I have very good time management skills which enables me to put my hardest work in being an athlete as well as a student. My intended major is to be in Pre-Law, Criminal Justice. I work my hardest in every situation, no matter what it is. I will work my hardest on your team, and make the team my second family. 

Outside of hockey I spend a lot of time with my family. As an only child, I have developed a very strong relashionship with my parents and tell them everything. Other than hockey, I give tours at the Northfield Historical Society over the summer, where I tell the story about our small town defeating the James and Younger Gang. I also enjoy playing and cuddling with my two cats, Charlotte and Allison. Animals have a special place in my heart, and I hope to volunteer at my local humane society when things open up again!