Posts by Colleen Lynch
Former NCAA Hockey Captain and Standout Shawn Pauly to Lead Chicago Center of Excellence
TPH is pleased to announce the hiring of Shawn Pauly to the position of Director and Head of Hockey for its Chicago division. Pauly joins TPH-Chicago after three seasons as the Assistant Men’s Hockey Coach at the University of Massachusetts-Boston, where he supported Head Coach, Peter Belisle, in virtually every aspect of running the Beacons’ hockey program. TPH Center of Excellence CEO, Alan Keeso, believes Pauly, the Director role and its Chicago location are a perfect fit.
“On behalf of all of us at TPH, we are thrilled to welcome Shawn to the team,” Keeso said. “Shawn oozes with leadership, intelligence and passion that our student-athletes will gravitate towards. He has worn virtually every hat in his young career that a successful TPH Director has to wear to be successful at executing our company purpose, which is to advance, in and beyond the game, the next generation of impact players. Everyone we spoke to about Shawn, from former teammates to former coaches, made it clear that he himself is an impact player. He will set a tremendous example for our staff and student-athletes to follow.”
“Oozing with leadership” likely references Pauly’s ability to, throughout his career, use hockey as a vehicle to grow himself as both a student and a person. A graduate of the University of Connecticut, Pauly helped the Huskies transition from the Atlantic Hockey conference to the always-competitive Hockey East conference in 2012. He spent four seasons at UConn, tallying 20 points or more every season. What’s more impressive is that Pauly earned Dean’s list honors in three of his four seasons, and capped off his college hockey journey, serving as a captain his senior year.
A 2016 graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Pauly went on to enjoy a three year professional playing career, skating with the ECHL’s Kansas City Mavericks from 2015-2017, before making the jump overseas to play with the Coventry Blaze of the EIHL for the 2018-2019 campaign. Impressively, while a member of the Blaze, the Bellingham, WA native completed his MBA at Coventry University, setting a perfect example for TPH student-athletes who are striving each and every day to achieve their academic and athletic goals at the same time.
Pauly says he wants to take his passion for culture and mentorship, his most recent experiences in coaching, player development and hockey administration at the collegiate level, and mesh it with his desire to make TPH-Chicago a positive, structured environment for student-athletes to grow in.
“I am ecstatic to have the opportunity to be the Director and Head of Hockey for TPH-Chicago,” Pauly said. “The partnership between TPH and the Windy City Storm, the caliber of hockey instructors involved, the commitment and care of the on-site academic team and the possibilities that exist within the current academic space are truly impressive. But what makes this a special opportunity for me is knowing what the Center of Excellence can do to create a holistic experience for both hockey players as well as all student-athletes, regardless of their age, their skill level or their future aspirations. I want the CoE to be a destination for student-athletes across Chicago, as long as they are willing to buy into a culture built on the bedrocks of hard work, discipline and acceptance. I can’t wait to dig in and put words into action.”
Pauly’s goal is to be on-site before the conclusion of the 2022-2023 academic year. In the meantime, prospective TPH-Chicago families who would like to learn more about TPH’s Study – Train – Play Center of Excellence model can request more information or arrange a time to chat with Shawn by clicking here.
About TPH
Founded in 2001, TPH seeks to become the world leader in positively impacting the lives of student-athletes through sport. TPH platforms include association management, elite prospects programs, tournaments and showcases, camps and clinics, and its hallmark Center of Excellence academy model, serving over 10,000 student-athletes annually throughout 16 U.S.-based divisions. TPH prides itself on taking a holistic approach, one that emphasizes the development of the individual in four ways: (1) as a player within a team setting, (2) as an athlete, dedicated to reaching their physical potential, (3) as a student, working to achieve their academic goals, and most importantly, (4) as a person, striving to win the ultimate game, and that’s the game of life.
Bringing the Game to its Roots
TPH Center of Excellence Hosts 1st Annual Colorado Winter Classic
Over 70 student-athletes from TPH Center of Excellence Denver and Superior took to the pond this past January to compete in the first annual TPH Colorado Winter Classic. The tournament was a joint venture between the two Center of Excellence locations and was developed to allow TPH student-athletes to experience the game of hockey how it was meant to be played: outside.
With fun in mind, the TPH Winter Classic allowed the student-athletes to take what they have already learned and apply it to a free flowing version of the game. Memories were forged that will last a lifetime as the student-athletes skated around the frozen surface of Lake Evergreen. As Lester Patrick stated in 1950, “The foundation of hockey isn’t really hockey at all. It’s shinny, a wild melee of kids batting a puck around, with no rules, no organization.”
But this was no ordinary game of shinny. There was no blindfolded stick shuffling, no harsh ice conditions, and no rushing to get home before the streetlights came on. This was a flawlessly executed round-robin style tournament that took place on 15 of the most well manicured mini rinks that Colorado had to offer.
In order to get the full pond hockey experience, student-athletes were challenged to play with teammates they had never met before. Teams were based on age, and each roster featured a mix of student-athletes from both Denver and Superior. Over the course of the day, family members and Center of Excellence staff cheered as a handful of NCAA Division 1 commits came to play with each team competing in 6 games.
The priority of the TPH Colorado Winter Classic was focused on having fun and providing a unique experience for everyone in attendance. “This was an excellent opportunity to bring the TPH family and the Colorado hockey families together,” mentioned Jordan Pietrus, Executive Director of TPH Colorado. “This was all about having some unstructured fun, getting exercise, and enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. We’re thrilled to have been able to bring the game back to its roots and host this amazing tournament for our student-athletes.”
Take the next step and register for the upcoming National Virtual Open House; discovering new levels of potential for your student-athlete at a Center of Excellence near you!
TPH Center of Excellence to open in Cincinnati, Ohio
Tri-State Spartans 18U team to be part of first class
TPH is proud to announce the opening of a Center of Excellence in Cincinnati, Ohio for the 2022-23 hockey season.
Located inside Sports Plus Ohio, a multi-sport facility, the new TPH CoE will offer student-athletes in grades 6-12 the opportunity to excel on and off the ice through the academy-style, blended learning model TPH provides at its now 16 locations across the country. The Cincinnati CoE will offer the unique learning and training model to athletes in and around the Buckeye State.
“TPH is very excited to bring our Center of Excellence to Cincinnati and partner with Sports Plus Ohio,” said Alan Keeso, Chief Executive Officer of TPH. “We have had a great deal of success in helping our student-athletes grow athletically, academically, and personally, and we look forward to offering the same opportunities to student-athletes across Ohio with our new location in Cincy. TPH strives to develop and advance the next generation of impact players, and that mindset fits in well with the growing sports community of Ohio and the surrounding areas.”
Some of the first attendees at the new Cincinnati CoE will be the 18U Tri-State Spartans team. Starting with the 2022-23 hockey season, players on the 18U Spartans roster will attend the CoE, creating a tremendous opportunity for the players to study, train and play together as they will see a dramatic increase in ice-time, both for individual skills and team concepts. By all enrolling in the online learning program cultivated by TPH and educational partner Edmentum, the team will be afforded the unique ability to customize their learning schedule to meet their demanding hockey needs. At the same time, being able to have a full team practice during the day means more quality time at home with their families than their AAA hockey peers.
“Sports Plus Ohio is excited to welcome the TPH Center of Excellence and Tri-State Spartans hockey program to our facility,” said Greg Martini, CFO of Sports Plus. “As the largest indoor sports facility in Greater Cincinnati, we believe that this joint venture will take our facility to the next level. Housing an elite sports training facility and education center under one roof is exactly what the Cincinnati market is looking for. We cannot wait for the Fall 2022 academic year to begin.”
With the move to Cincinnati, TPH and the Tri-State Spartans will join forces in a renovation project for Sports Plus. A new academic area will be constructed within the facility, a new locker room will be built for the Spartans, a new weight room will be installed, and the rink will see upgrades to the benches, boards, glass and more.
“We feel that this will be a tremendous opportunity for the players of our 18U team,” said Chris Lipsett, co-director of the Tri-State Spartans. “The players will receive world-class individualized and team training, and with all of them on the same school and training schedule, we can enhance their hockey experience. Handling the time commitments that come with elite 18U AAA hockey will become much easier when we have all of the players under one roof for their on-ice and off-ice training, as well as their education.”
“The possibilities are endless when you consider having all of the players utilizing the online curriculum for their final years of high school,” said Judi Kremer, co-director of the Spartans with Lipsett. “With them all being together, they can all rest when they need to, they can all recover when they need to, and they can manage their school and their athletic schedules in unison for a best of both worlds experience.”
The 18U Team enrollment is just the start; in 2023-24, the 16U Tri-State Spartans will enroll in the CoE, as well.
Athletes of other sports will be invited to enroll in the CoE, which offers a unique blend of online education with in-person instructors and tutoring. It is designed to benefit the needs of all elite student-athletes, not just hockey players. Full-time academic leaders are on-site daily to ensure that the student-athletes are held accountable for their education and assist them in any way necessary.
“A quality education is a top priority for any family, and we have spent several years working with Edmentum to create an academic experience where student-athletes are able to achieve positive academic outcomes that prepare them for success at the next level, whether it be in athletics or academics,” Keeso said. “We have also been working diligently to create applicable, real-world experiences that develop the student-athlete beyond the boundaries of the ice and classroom. We are confident that families in Cincinnati and the surrounding areas will see that the Center of Excellence provides a better way to academic and athletic excellence.”
Founded in 2001, Total Package Hockey’s (TPH) purpose is to lead the world in the holistic development of student-athletes, advancing – in and beyond the game – the next generation of impact players. TPH prides itself on operating at a standard that exceeds expectations of student-athletes, families, coaches, teachers, advisors and all other entities within both athletic and academic circles. With platforms that include association management, elite prospects programs, tournaments and showcases, camps and clinics and its hallmark Center of Excellence academy model, TPH services over 10,000 student-athletes on an annual basis, throughout 16 U.S. based divisions.
A Passion Project: More Than Hockey
TPH Alum, Robby Murray launches new entrepreneurial project
When he stepped away from the game of hockey, TPH alum Robby Murray knew that he needed to find his next challenge. The nineteen-year-old had spent five years studying at the Nashville Center of Excellence while competing for the TPH Thunder and the Nashville Jr. Predators. After years of studying and training at the highest level, Robby was inspired to create a brand that reflected his experiences and values. The hockey player turned entrepreneur recently launched WRDS, a clothing brand that was built to inspire others to remain committed to learning, training, and pushing the boundaries of what they’re capable of.
“I had to find what was next for me and figure out who I want to be outside of hockey,” Robby said. “I wanted to create more than just another clothing line, I wanted to build something that would inspire people to continue learning. WRDS is built on many of my values and it keeps me dedicated to bettering myself.” The young entrepreneur has fully devoted his time towards learning how to run a business, stating that he has found fulfillment in learning everything from how to write a business plan and marketing strategy, to negotiating with manufacturers and filing taxes.
Robby credits his time at TPH for developing a variety of skills that have translated to the business world, including his work ethic, competitive drive, and networking abilities. “The relationships I built through TPH were monumental in getting WRDS off the ground. When I came up with the idea, the first people I told were my TPH teammates.”
“We couldn’t be more proud of Robby,” mentioned Pat O’Neil, Executive Director of TPH Southeast. “He’s a perfect example of how the lessons learned at TPH can be translated to life after hockey, and we’re thrilled to see that he’s pursuing his newfound passion off of the ice. Our entire team is rooting for him and we can’t wait to see where this endeavor leads him.”
The unique NCAA accredited blended learning model develops student-athletes into critical thinkers and problem solvers, and Robby is a testament to how the “TPH Way” is a stepping stone for winning in the ultimate game: the game of life.
Whether on the ice or off, move the puck on your student-athlete’s success by registering for the upcoming National Virtual Open House as we offer a better way to academic and athletic excellence!
Philip McRae Joins TPH Ownership Group
Blues Draft Pick, Philip McRae becomes owner of TPH St. Louis
TPH St. Louis is proud to announce that former St. Louis Blue, Philip McRae, has become an owner of TPH St. Louis and the St. Louis Center of Excellence (CoE). Philip first joined the TPH team in May of 2019, when he was named the Director and Head of Hockey for TPH St. Louis. After a 10 year professional career, Philip has developed a newfound passion for helping student-athletes maximize their potential, on and off the ice.
Philip’s career has come full circle through the St. Louis hockey community, from his humble beginnings through his professional debut. He discovered his love for the game when he began playing for the Chesterfield Falcons. After leading the Falcons to a Central States League Championship, Philip went on to win a National Championship with the St. Louis AAA Blues. At the age of 15, Philip left home to compete as an underage player for the USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, before signing with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League at 16. Furthermore, Philip won two medals with the USA National Team, a bronze at the U-18 World Championships and a gold at the U-20 World Juniors.
Philip’s childhood dreams came true in 2008, when he was selected 33rd overall by his hometown St. Louis Blues in the NHL draft. He would go on to have a lengthy professional career, competing in the NHL, AHL, and several international leagues, before returning to the Gateway City to join the TPH team.
After retiring from professional hockey, it didn’t take long for Philip to find himself back in the St. Louis hockey community. “I was extremely excited and grateful when TPH took a chance on me and hired me as the Director and Head of Hockey almost two years ago. I am just as excited now to be a partner and owner of TPH St. Louis” said Philip. “When I retired from playing hockey after 10 years pro, I was unsure of my future, but I have been lucky and fortunate to find what I believe is my calling in mentoring young student-athletes. I am excited to continue to run TPH St. Louis to the best of my ability, grow the program, and have a positive impact on as many young athletes as possible”. Philip also mentioned “The St. Louis Blues alumni do an amazing job of giving back to the local hockey community, so as a young player growing up in the St. Louis area, they really ingrained in me that responsibility and that’s something I now get to do each day”.
“We are extremely fortunate to have a positive role model that has played for local St. Louis programs,” stated Alan Keeso, CEO of Total Package Hockey. “Philip was in the same position as many of our Center of Excellence student-athletes, and has played at every level that they aspire to one day play at. Philip demonstrates the “TPH Way” through his actions and mentorship every single day, and his commitment to helping young student-athletes maximize their potential is incredible. We are thrilled to have Philip join our ownership group and we know that he will continue to drive-up the standard in St. Louis as a partner.”
Philip joins the TPH leadership team and ownership group amongst an incredible roster of hockey veterans. With a dedicated staff from around the country, TPH is focused on making student-athletes the best versions of themselves on and off the ice.
Take the next step in your athletic and academic journey by connecting with Philip or reserve your spot for the upcoming free TPH Day!
About Total Package Hockey
Founded in 2001, it is Total Package Hockey’s (TPH) vision to become the world leader in positively impacting the lives of student-athletes through sport. TPH prides itself on operating at a standard that exceeds expectations of student-athletes, families, coaches, teachers, advisors and all other entities within both athletic and academic circles. With platforms that include association management, elite prospects programs, tournaments and showcases, camps and clinics and its hallmark Center of Excellence academy model, TPH services over 10,000 student-athletes on an annual basis, throughout 15 U.S. based divisions.
Former USHL Coach Mike Berra Joins Nashville Jr. Predators and TPH Nashville Team
We are excited to announce that Mike Berra will be joining the Nashville Jr. Predators and TPH Nashville team later on this month. Mike will assume the role as a full-time head coach for the Jr. Predators program and as the Head of Hockey at the TPH Center of Excellence.
Mike brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, working with NHL, pro, college, junior and youth hockey players of all ages and skill levels. His experience, coupled with his focus on player development, advancement and mentorship, is a great match and fit with both Jr. Predators and TPH.
Prior to assuming his new role, Mike has spent the last six years with the Sioux City Musketeers of the USHL; serving as a Scout, Assistant Coach, and currently as Director of Player Development. In his time with the Musketeers, Mike has helped coach, recruit and develop players to reach the NCAA Division 1 and professional levels.
When asked about the transition, Sioux City Musketeers Head Coach, Luke Strand, stated, “Mike is a true pro. He is constantly finding ways for players to develop on and off the ice. His passion and experiences will enhance a player’s knowledge and abilities, translating into new opportunities for their young careers. He will be a great addition to TPH”.
Coach Berra has also spent six years with Synergy Hockey Skills as the Director of Hockey and Lead Instructor; and 10 years with the St. Louis AAA Blues as a Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations where he worked with notable NHL alumni such as Al MacInnis, Jeff Brown, Scott Mellanby and Jamie Rivers.
Mike’s proven track record of helping advance the hockey careers of players in the junior, collegiate and professional levels shows he is a passionate leader who is committed to excellence. As a head coach and program Director for the AAA Blues, Berra mentored and helped Trent Frederic (98) of the Boston Bruins, Christian Berger (00) with Penn State, Tony Follmer (00) now at Bemidji State University, Logan Ritchie (00) currently at St. Lawrence University, Henry Wagner (01) at Yale, Cole Mcward (01) playing at Ohio State, Jakub Dobes (01) also at Ohio State and property of the Montreal Canadiens, Jack Williams (01) a member of the Waterloo Black Hawks in the USHL and committed to Notre Dame and Hunter Mckown (02) who played at the US National Program and is now playing for Colorado College, to name a few.
Off the ice, Mike enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Rachel, 8-month old daughter, Jovie, and his two dogs, Dave and Dolly.
Mike and his family are thrilled to be taking on this new adventure. Coach Berra stated, “I am very excited to be joining the Jr. Predators and TPH families. I will be committed to making a positive impact in the lives of all of our student-athletes, while helping the continued growth of hockey in the Nashville area”.
Advance your hockey journey in 2022 by learning from Coach Berra and becoming involved with TPH Center of Excellence Nashville.
See you in the classroom, on the ice or around campus soon!
About TPH
Founded in 2001, TPH seeks to become the world leader in positively impacting the lives of student-athletes through sport. TPH platforms include association management, elite prospects programs, tournaments and showcases, camps and clinics, and its hallmark Center of Excellence academy model, serving over 10,000 student-athletes annually throughout 16 U.S.-based divisions. TPH prides itself on taking a holistic approach, one that emphasizes the development of the individual in four ways: (1) as a player within a team setting, (2) as an athlete, dedicated to reaching their physical potential, (3) as a student, working to achieve their academic goals, and most importantly, (4) as a person, striving to win the ultimate game, and that’s the game of life.
The Right Move
How relocating elevated Rylee’s game.
Growing up in a small town in Idaho, Rylee Tanner just didn’t have enough options to take her game to the next level. In a town with just over 3,000 people, she was limited to the house league, AA, or high school boys’ hockey. She knew that if she wanted to accomplish her goals of playing college hockey, she had to make a change.
That’s why at age 17, she packed her bags and pursued a one-of-a-kind opportunity at the Center of Excellence (CoE) in Superior, Colorado. Enrolling at CoE was the perfect fit for her goals, as it allowed her to focus on her education while traveling the country with Team Colorado’s 19U AAA squad.
CoE’s unique blended learning model has already proven to be successful for Rylee on and off the ice. “The CoE model has impacted both my learning and my playing tremendously,” she stated. “Being able to work with other students in the classroom, stand up and move around, and exercise before I do my work helps me focus and be more successful as a student. I have been getting stronger on the ice due to the work we do off of the ice, and we work on the basics every day which helps me be able to execute the basics at a practice”.
When Rylee arrived on campus, she had several goals in mind. She wanted to improve academically, translate classroom lessons into on-ice performance, and learn how to make quicker decisions during games. Not only did she accomplish these goals, but she also manifested her childhood dream of playing college hockey. In the Fall of 2021, Rylee committed to play NCAA DIII hockey at Finlandia University in Hancock, Michigan.
Rylee has nothing but positive things to say about the staff at CoE’s Superior location. “Matt Doman, Director of Hockey Operations, has done more than words can describe. I’d also like to give a shout-out to Coach Quailer for being patient and helping me improve my skills in the skills room, and a big thanks to Annie Doman, Head of Academics, for always helping me stay on pace in school, and communicating with my teachers”. Making the decision to leave her friends and family in Idaho wasn’t easy, but the Superior team worked closely with Rylee and her family in order to ensure that the move was as easy as possible. After just 1 year, Rylee has already forged long-lasting relationships with her teammates and classmates.
Ready to take the next step in your game? Make the right move by beginning here with the TPH Center of Excellence!
Detroit’s Norris Featured on Octopuses Podcast
TOTAL PACKAGE HOCKEY AND WORLD HOCKEY GROUP TEAM UP TO CREATE WORLD HOCKEY EVENTS
A coordinated effort to raise the bar of youth hockey tournaments, camps and more
EXETER, NEW HAMPSHIRE — Two of the biggest entities in youth hockey events — Total Package Hockey (TPH) and World Hockey Group (WHG) — have teamed up in a joint venture to launch World Hockey Events (WHE). Between the two organizations, WHG and TPH account for more than 20 years of tournament operations experience, with a global network of elite coaches, knowledgeable scouts and evaluators, experienced tournament directors and state-of-the-art facilities. Through World Hockey Events, the two groups combine to raise the bar of expectations regarding tournaments and events worldwide.
Together, the organizations merge to provide more than 25 tournaments, camps and tours throughout North America and Europe. World Hockey Events includes tournaments for Tier-I and Tier-II level teams as well as individual programming for Elite and AAA-level athletes. Not just offering world-class events for the youth hockey community, but a first-class experience for the athlete, the team and the families.
“At TPH, we’ve always prided ourselves on running great youth hockey events since our first tournament 15 years ago,” said TPH chief executive officer Alan Keeso. “By working together with Travis Bezio and his team at World Hockey Group, we feel it’s an opportunity for both groups to elevate all of our events to heights never seen before in youth hockey.”
The current portfolio includes iconic events such as The World Selects Invitational in Nashville, Champions League Hockey and Grand Rapids AAA Kick-Off Classic. Other programming like international tours to European World Selects events and individual-entry tournaments like The Atlantic Scramble and New England States Rivalry Challenge.
“People can expect the absolute best,” said WHG chief executive officer Travis Bezio. “Players, coaches and parents attending a World Hockey Event will experience the very best in competition, hospitality and travel. A seamless process from start to finish that will leave everyone with memories that’ll last a lifetime.”
As part of the merger, WorldHockeyHub.com will serve as home for the entire World Hockey Events portfolio. Every tournament, tour, and event from the team at WHE will be available exclusively on the World Hockey Hub, with multimedia coverage, schedules, standings, tournament recaps and digital media provided by The Pulse of Youth Hockey.
Through World Hockey Events, both TPH and WHG expand their respective footprints on the youth hockey landscape, improving on current programming and venturing into new endeavors like the expansion of Champions League, World Selects and the Centers of Excellence.
For more information regarding World Hockey Events and its complete list of events, click HERE.
About Total Package Hockey: Founded in 2001, it is Total Package Hockey’s (TPH) vision to become the world leader in positively impacting the lives of student-athletes through sport. TPH prides itself on operating at a standard that exceeds expectations of student-athletes, families, coaches, teachers, advisors and all other entities within both athletic and academic circles. With platforms that include association management, elite prospects programs, tournaments and showcases, camps and clinics and its hallmark Center of Excellence academy model, TPH services over 10,000 student-athletes on an annual basis, throughout 15 U.S. based divisions.
About World Hockey Group: The worldwide leader in youth hockey tournaments and events. World Hockey Group (WHG) provides more than two dozen unique events in exotic locations around the globe. The team at WHG is deeply involved in the youth hockey community, with an international presence in various countries including the United States, Canada, Sweden, Finland, Russia and central Europe. WHG prides itself on providing world-class competition along with a first-class travel experience. Events like the Champions League and World Selects tournament series offer amazing opportunities abroad both on and off the ice for the entire family to enjoy.
About World Hockey Hub: The Pulse of Youth Hockey. World Hockey Hub (WHH) is your number one resource for the latest news, team rankings, highlights, analysis and more from the world of youth hockey. WHH is the worldwide leader in providing global coverage of the game year-round. With an international rankings system, a comprehensive list of more than 500 tournaments, event ratings and reviews as well as the latest team and prospect news, WHH is your one-stop-shop for everything youth hockey related.
WorldHockeyHub.com | Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube
TPH Student-Athletes Are Making An Impact Off The Ice this Holiday Season
Celebration, selflessness, and reflection – three keywords that mean something different to everyone, but are united through youth athletics and the giving spirit that the holiday season brings. No matter the victories or the defeats you experienced in 2021, we shall turn our hearts and focus to surrounding communities that need help. From coast-to-coast, that is exactly what the TPH Center of Excellence student-athletes have been dedicated to accomplishing off the ice; being a helping hand and making a positive impact within their communities this holiday season.
In St. Louis, the student-athletes and their families teamed up with Angel Arms, a non-profit organization, to adopt a family of seven children with a single mother who is currently battling cancer. With this act of kindness, the TPH Center of Excellence in St. Louis was able to provide clothing, gift cards, and raise nearly $2,000; fulfilling the family’s wish list for the holidays. The hand-written letters from the student-athletes brought joy to the family, as well, during this difficult time.
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The Indiana team took action this December by participating in the WRTV6 Toy Drive. With help from the Red Cross, student-athletes collected and filled a van full of new toys that were gifted to families around the Indianapolis area who needed some holiday cheer. Once the last toy was successfully delivered, the TPH Center of Excellence Director in Indiana, Judi Kremer, recapped the exciting experience by mentioning “What a wonderful experience to see the compassion and energy that the student-athletes brought to the toy drive and getting the information out to collect from family, friends, neighbors, and teammates. The community supported our student-athlete’s efforts and everyone showed what the spirit of giving was truly about”.
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In the south, TPH Center of Excellence student-athletes in Nashville wrote and decorated uplifting holiday letters that brought happiness and a smile to the residents of the Morning Pointe Senior Living facility in Franklin, Tennessee. In the spirit of giving, the Nashville team also collected 1,631 pounds of food and delivered it to the Second Harvest Food Bank. “Our original goal was to collect 500 pounds and our students and their families stepped up in a big way,” said Jen Cubides, Head of Academics.
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Out west, the Phoenix team provided nearly $1,000 in hygiene products for women who recently became homeless. Turning the giving up a notch in December, the student-athletes also adopted a family in need; making Christmas a little happier this year.
These selfless efforts made by TPH Center of Excellence student-athletes and their families go far beyond bringing happiness to others, but rather unite teams, families, and communities. No matter if it’s in the classroom, on the ice, or in the community, each TPH Center of Excellence location has an environment built for growth with a holistic approach of preparing student-athletes for success in the ultimate game, the game of life.
Take a moment to reflect on what worked well for you this year in your hockey journey and where you aspire to be this time next year on and off the ice.
If you’re looking to find a better way to academic and athletic excellence, a great first step would be registering for the upcoming National Virtual Open House on Monday, January 10th. You could also get involved in the TK Scholarship Fund to help aspiring student-athletes.
Let’s study, train, and play more in 2022!