Back after 6 months

In the last couple months much has happened. In early January I began skating with the Junior Bison with full pads, at that point my hip was still very fragile and pushing it was not an option. I worked hard with therapy to strengthen my entire body back to hockey standards with much help from my therapist Jennifer Knox and both my coaches, Brent Cullaton and Derek Armstrong who were all patient and helpful with what was best for my recovery. Throughout the entire process there was always the hope of salvaging something from this season and coming back to play at the end of the year. However, this idea was mere hope for keeping spirits high for myself and my career rather than a serious thought. Originally I was supposed to be recovering for 8-10 months and my surgeon, Dr. Brian White, seemed to be very set on no sooner than 8 months. However, since January my hip has improved dramatically and returning for playoffs seemed to be more and more of an option. I gave my doctor a call in early February to inquire about my return to sports and his recommended release from his care. To my surprise he was supportive of the idea and said that the opportunity of having playoff experience was worth coming back early and my hip was fully healed.

I dressed for 6 games since the call and was in the rotation for 2. The first period against the New Mexico Renegades was a little nerve racking after 6 months without playing, I made some simple mistakes that I usually would not, but the second game I gained some confidence and performed close to my full capability. I'm looking forward to playoffs this weekend which will be my first junior postseason experience! I would like to thank everyone who has helped me in this recovery especially my family who has had to deal with a injured hockey player going through some serious withdrawals, I'm sure that took more patience than I realize.