The other day I had the chance to catch up with Boston College Eagle Defenseman Michael Kim and talk about his path to NCAA Hockey.
Michael, how does a young man from Toronto Canada make his way to the eastern United States to play hockey?
“Education was always a priority for me. I thought after my Minor Midget year at home that I could be more of an impact player if I went to prep school. I also thought playing in the U.S. would get me more looks from NCAA programs.”
So how did you end up in the USPHL?
“I looked at other leagues, and had opportunities to go other places. But, when I looked at the USPHL and where I wanted to go to College, it made a lot of sense for me to stay out east. I played on a summer team, and once I saw how good the league was, it was an easy decision.”
If you could tell a player one thing about your USPHL experience, what would you say?
“Its a great league and if you want to go to school, they work hard to help get you there. Everything is first class, and they prepare you for the next level.”
How did you end up at Boston College through an in season commitment?
“It was crazy really. I got a text message in November letting me know that Coach was coming to watch me play. Two days later I went on a visit and I committed the next day. Then I got another call from Coach Anderson letting me know that BC had called and they wanted me to come in right away. It all happened real fast, and the Junior Bruins staff supported me all the way when I made the choice to leave for college.”
Have you heard about the new NCDC division?
“Not until just now. I have been pretty busy with school and our season just ended so there isn’t much time to keep up with things. But a free to play division is going to be awesome. Its great to see the league do even more for players, and it just shows what they are all about. The leagues location alone makes this new division the easiest one for schools to scout.”
If you offered a young player one piece of advise, what would it be?
“Use your time wisely. Don’t waste time playing video games, or just goofing off with the boys. Do the extra work. When the ice is available, go out and shoot pucks. When you have an extra hour with nothing to do, go to the gym or go for a run. Commit to yourself, and you will find a school that will commit to you.”
Joseph Kolodziej – Publisher
