My love affair with hockey began at the tender age of 2. As a little kid, I was fascinated by the game, and it quickly became a significant part of my life. The sport of hockey has given me countless memories and life lessons that will stay with me forever.
One of my earliest memories of hockey takes me back to my starting days. I was so passionate about the game that I would give it my all, even to the point of exhaustion. I remember falling asleep on the ice in the middle of a game, completely worn out from the exhilaration and physical demands of the sport. It was a funny moment that showcased just how deeply I was engrossed in hockey.
Over the years, I dedicated myself to the sport, and the hard work paid off. I experienced the exhilaration of winning championships. The feeling of hoisting the trophy, celebrating with my teammates, and knowing that our collective efforts had paid off was indescribable. Those victories became cherished memories that I hold dear.
Beyond the on-ice achievements, hockey also provided me with the opportunity to build lifelong connections. The camaraderie and bond formed with my teammates were incredibly special. We shared the ups and downs, the victories and defeats, and the countless hours of practice and training. Through these experiences, I learned the value of teamwork, trust, and supporting one another.
My parents and I have always been very close, but Hockey just made our bond even better. They were my biggest fans, always there to cheer me on from the sidelines. After each game, we would sit down and talk about my performance, discussing the highlights, analyzing areas for improvement, and sharing the joy of being part of such an incredible sport. Those post-game conversations became a ritual that strengthened our relationship and created a deep bond. A bond that will last a life time.
Through hockey, I learned important life lessons that have shaped the person I am today. The sport taught me the value of hard work and the rewards it brings. It instilled in me the qualities of leadership and the importance of leading by example. Hockey taught me integrity and the significance of playing with fairness and respect.
Furthermore, the sport emphasized the importance of maintaining good health. Hockey demands physical fitness, discipline, and dedication. It taught me the importance of taking care of my body and prioritizing my well-being.
Hockey also taught me how to overcome failure. In the face of defeats and setbacks, I learned resilience and the determination to get back up, learn from my mistakes, and keep pushing forward.
It taught me that failure is not the end but an opportunity for growth.
Above all, hockey taught me how to be a person of character, a man. It taught me patience, humility, and the value of perseverance. It showed me that success is not just about winning games, but about the joy and passion that the game brings. Hockey filled my heart with an immense sense of joy every time I stepped onto the ice, and that joy is something that will stay with me forever.
As I reflect on my journey with hockey, from those early starting days to my time in Junior A days, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, memories, and life lessons the sport has given me.
Hockey will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am proud to call myself a hockey player., proud to be the Co-Founder of Joy Hockey Inc., but most importantly, blessed to be a part of this incredible team that continues to inspire and uplift the next generation of hockey players.
Forever grateful,
Jayce Nikbakht
