Coming into the SHL, I didn’t really know what to expect. I have been obsessed with hockey for years, so it seemed like this site would be a fun experience for me. I had trouble sticking with things in the past, which I feel deprived me of a lot of great experiences. However, once I got accustomed to the site, I got hooked really fast. Pre-draft was a really exciting experience for me. Building up hype around my player was a fun challenge, and it really built a lot of anticipation leading into the draft. I remember being so nervously excited that day, and when I finally saw my name called by Mook, going to the Detroit Falcons, I was excited beyond belief. It was such a great feeling being chosen.

After this, I began becoming hyped about the regular season. I was joining a very successful franchise just coming off of a Four Star Cup win, with an opportunity to repeat as champions with them. Most of the guys from the team last year were returning, so we had a strong chance at winning again. I became active in the locker room, becoming closer with all my teammates, and especially the other rookies like Jasper Clayton, Austin Lemieux, and Ross Burke. This made me feel proud to be a Falcon, and I wanted to make my player as great as possible so I could help the team win. I steadily improved my player as the season progressed, and I was rewarded with greater responsibility on the team. I started out on the third line, but eventually moved my way up to the first line, playing big minutes for my team. This was such a great feeling, seeing my hard work being appreciated by my GM. I performed to expectations out on the ice too, finishing 9th in points for rookies. I helped my team come back to clinch first overall in the East, after being behind St Louis for the majority of the season. This was such a great feeling too. To be a part of the best team in the SMJHL, playing on the first line in my rookie season is something that I didn’t think I would be experiencing when I signed up for this site. There is so much to be excited for in the future here too. The playoffs are right around the corner, and once those are done, the SHL draft will be next. I really can’t wait for my future in this league.

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