West Bend Power Hockey with Kris Marion, Jake Sherry, Oliver Schroeder & Monte Gould

The West Bend Power hockey team is the focus of an engaging discussion featuring Kris Marion, the team's Business Operations Manager, and three of its players: Jake Sherry, Oliver Schroeder, and Monte Gould. Kris shares insights into the team's transition from being the Milwaukee Power to the West Bend Power, highlighting the positive impact of local ownership and community support. This episode dives into the structure of junior hockey leagues, explaining how these young athletes, aged 17 to 20, are preparing for potential collegiate careers and beyond. The conversation also covers the rigorous demands of junior hockey, from daily practices and games to balancing personal lives and community involvement. Each player shares personal motivations and aspirations, providing a window into the dedication required to pursue hockey at this level. Kris discusses the importance of community engagement and the role of billet families in supporting out-of-town players, emphasizing the strong bonds formed between players and their host families.

Takeaways:

• The West Bend Power hockey team is a junior league team based in Wisconsin that provides young players an opportunity to advance to collegiate hockey.
• The team, formerly known as the Milwaukee Power, moved to West Bend and is now owned by local proprietors, emphasizing community involvement.
• Junior hockey serves as a crucial stepping stone for players aged 17 to 20 who aspire to play at the collegiate level and potentially beyond.
• The team fosters a strong sense of community and engagement, with players actively participating in local events and volunteer activities.
• Billet families play a vital role in supporting the players by providing them with a home away from home during the hockey season.
• The West Bend Power's games are a significant local event, bringing a minor league atmosphere to the community with a dedicated fan base.

Links referenced in this episode:

• westbendhockey.com