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    FYHA 2024 Board Candidates

    Below are the individuals that will be on the ballot. Voting will open via online ballot on March 9. Please reach out to any of these candidates with questions. 

    Kyle Engstrom

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    2 squirts and a mini mite next year.

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member? 

    I want to be involved in helping make the association better.

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    I’m transitioning to a new job that’ll allow me to be more available during the winter time.

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    15+ years of playing hockey in fairmont.

    5. List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    I am safe sport certified and have the certification for coaching. I also have experience in hockey.

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    Find ways to better our association starting with the youth programs and our children playing the game.

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    I am passionate and dedicated to finding ways to achieve positive goals.

     

    Sandra Engstrom

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    Currently have a Squirt and Mite, next year will also have a Mini Mite

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member? 

    I want to help build ensure that we are giving our kids the best experiences possible. Truly taking the time to listen to the kids and parents from all levels and make our program more competitive. Help to find ways to better utilities ice time for all levels to give them the best opportunities. So many families fork out money for camps to better their kids in the off season because they don’t feel that our hockey program is truly giving our kids everything they need to be good hockey players. I want to help open the eyes of other members and parents on how we can all work together to really make a difference.

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    I can commit as much time as needed. While I will still want to be able to be watch my kids games, I will dedicate my time otherwise to any task or responsibilities that are needed.

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    I am outgoing, think out of the box, committed and passionate about everything I do, I am very big on helping in the community and working to make a difference.

    5.  List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    I am well organized and a quick learner. Willing and able to help in any and all areas that will best utilize my skills.

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    Looking at the last few seasons the biggest improvement I see our organization needs is communication and consistency. If you look at the Fairmont Football Program Matt Mahoney is involved from the smallest players to the varsity, he is ensuring that they are learning the fundamentals of the sports and skills that each level should have down before advancing the next year. He teaches coach’s to ensure they can properly teach and help each player to be the best. Not 1 kid is left or singled out. I truly thing our hockey program needs to take notes and have better education for parents/coaching staff, fundamentals of hockey need to be taught before we are doing advanced drills on levels. Our kids need coach’s who are going to see the needs our their players and find ways to best help them, coaches need the proper education to ensure they can really coach hockey to kids. Squirts and up should be practicing and maintaining full ice practices with the entire level, we shouldn’t have such a huge decide of players. Yes we have kids at different skill levels but understanding that kids practicing with kids that are better skaters or puke handlers then them will better help push them to be better players. Practicing full ice as an entire unit will help our kids to be better conditioned to skate full ice games rather then get circles skated around them because they can’t keep up. Ensuring that coach’s are fully invested in their players and maintaining good communication with parents and players.

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share:

    I think that overall we need more passionate and dedicated people to help make necessary change that will better our program and skaters. While change won’t happen overnight it needs to start somewhere before we start loosing families. Utilities our seasonal ice better, working together at all levels, and really pushing in on the fundamentals from the mini-mite/mite/squirt levels to help build better understanding, pushing for coach’s who understand the fundamentals and know how to really reach kids are all things we can do to really help make our program a competitive program. 

     

    McKenzie Terfehr

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    Mites, 10U

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member? 

    To be active in the program, to provide a positive impact for our kids in hockey, and to promote the program in a positive manner

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    5-10

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    Leadership - business owner, coaching experience, member on other activity boards

    5.  List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    Leadership skills, communication skills, organization skills, conflict resolution skills, problem-solving, adaptability

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    Communication and transparency with the community and FYHA members; organization and structure

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    In the previous few months, I have learned quite a bit from the board and would like to continue to learn, as well as serve the association for the kids and families that participate.

     

    Doug Cepress

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

        2 Boys this year. A 1st year squirt and a 2nd year bantam

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member?

    I want to be a Fairmont Youth Hockey board member because of my deep-rooted passion for the sport and the development of our youth. I believe in the power of sports, particularly hockey, in shaping young individuals. It is through their participation in such programs that they learned valuable life skills like teamwork, discipline, resilience, and leadership.

    Firstly, it's about the kids. Being part of the board allows me to create an environment where they can flourish both as players and as individuals. I want to ensure that every child who wants to play has that opportunity, and is able to learn and grow in a supportive, enriching environment.

    Secondly, I am eager to continue to help grow the program. With my experience and dedication, I believe I can bring innovative ideas to expand our reach, and attract more participants. I want to help cultivate a strong, thriving program that provides the best possible experience for our young athletes.

    Lastly, I am also interested in fostering a strong community around our program. I believe that a strong youth hockey program can bring people together and create a sense of unity and pride in our area. I want to work towards creating more opportunities for community involvement and fostering strong relationships with local businesses and organizations.

    In conclusion, my desire to be a Fairmont Youth Hockey board member stems from my passion for the sport, my commitment to youth development, and my vision of a thriving, community-centered program. I am excited at the prospect of using my skills and experience to make a positive impact on the lives of our young athletes.

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    As much as needed. Some weeks will be more than others.

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    I offer 5 years of board membership coupled with 9 years of coaching experience, along with 4 years of officiating youth and high school games.

    5. List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    *Experience in board governance and strategic decision-making*

    *Leadership skills honed through 5 years of board membership* 

    *9 years of coaching expertise, fostering player development and team success* *Proficiency in officiating youth and high school hockey games, ensuring fair play and sportsmanship*

     *Dedication to promoting a positive and inclusive hockey culture within the community*

    *Commitment to upholding the values and mission of the Fairmont Youth Hockey Association*

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    Communication and Transparency: Enhancing communication channels with parents, players, coaches, and volunteers. By doing this we can foster transparency, address concerns, and keep everyone informed about events, schedules, and organizational updates. I would contribute by bringing a mentor program to the table where experienced families extend a welcoming hand to newcomers. By pairing seasoned families with those new to the sport, where we aim to provide invaluable support, guidance, and camaraderie, fostering an inclusive hockey community for all.

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    I bring 5 years of dedicated board experience, 9 years of coaching expertise, and a passion for fostering a supportive and inclusive hockey community. With my commitment to transparency, communication, and player development, I'm ready to help Fairmont Youth Hockey thrive.

    Andrew Sukalski

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    Next year I will have a PeeWee (Higgins), a Squirt (Gavin), a Mite (Gunnar), and two Minis (Xander/Vinny).

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member? 

    As a Director of Research and Development, I believe in the importance of long-range planning and strategic foresight. I want to ensure that FYHA moves beyond short-term fixes and implements sustainable solutions that will benefit the association for years to come. My goal is to contribute my expertise in removing short-sightedness and improving structure to help FYHA thrive in the long term. It's crucial to me that the association operates with fairness and transparency, keeping nepotism in check to ensure equal opportunities for all members. Additionally, I am committed to this role because I have five boys who are involved or will be involved in hockey, keeping me actively engaged in the association until the year 2038.

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    5 hours per week

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    My background equips me with strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, which are essential for effective leadership in any organization, including a hockey association. Additionally, I have a deep understanding of effective leadership principles and have been actively involved in various leadership roles, allowing me to bring valuable insights and perspectives to the board.

    5. List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    Strategic planning and long-range forecasting. 

    Analytical thinking and problem-solving. 

    Leadership and team management. 

    Effective communication and collaboration. 

    Knowledge of organizational development and process improvement.

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    The most important improvement I would like to see is increased involvement and engagement from all stakeholders to eliminate the feeling of being spread too thin and to enhance decision-making processes. To contribute to this effort, I would focus on creating clear expectations surrounding roles, fostering collaboration among teams and committees, and implementing mitigation planning strategies to address issues as they arise. Additionally, I would work to ensure that there is accountability and additional involvement when teams, committees, or coaches are floundering, thereby improving overall performance and effectiveness within FYHA.

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    I am committed to the success and growth of FYHA and am eager to work collaboratively with fellow board members and stakeholders to achieve our shared goals. With my background in research and development and my passion for supporting organizational excellence, I am confident that I can make meaningful contributions to the association and help position FYHA for long-term success.

     

    Derek Olson

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    Mite- 4 years, peewee- 6 years, varsity girl

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member? 

    Fresh ideas and been around the program at all levels, we also play spring hockey in different areas.

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    A couple hours

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    Experience with different associations

    5. List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    Great people skills

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    More development and power skating

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    I've seen areas that need improvement.

     

    Jessica Grolla

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    Peewee bantam

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member? 

    I love this organization

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    20

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    I have been the FYHA Board president

    5. List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    Masters in management and leadership

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    I would like to see an investment in the kids. That is what it is all about.

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    No comments

     

    Courtney Fritz

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    Hadyn Lillevold - current (Mites - Bantam)

    2. Why do you want to be a FYHA Board Member? 

    This program will continue to grow if we have passionate advocates for the betterment of the program and players.

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    2-4 hours. More if necessary.

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    I understand how the boys play the game and the rules of the game, but I need to learn more about the logistics - including behind the scenes within the district.

    5. List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    Planning, organizing, advocating, mediating, listening to other parents’ thoughts

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    Starting and pushing core skating, puck handling, and shooting skills as well as whole-team teamwork at a younger age. Instead of an hour practice, maybe do 45 min practices with Zamboni between every other practice? There has to be a more efficient and effective way to get the kids on the ice and offer full-ice options. We can’t compete with teams that have year-round/full-ice practices…. We need to push the community to get a new arena. We might need to explore other options to make that a reality….

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    I may be intense, but I care about the kids in this program and the future of the program (even after my kid has graduated).

    Troy Droegemueller

    1. Players in the Program:

     - Past, Present, or Next Season

     - For each, list years played and levels played (Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam) 

    Squirt /10U and Peewee/12U

    2. Why do you want to be an FYHA Board Member? 

    To help the association grow

    3. How much time per week (average) can you reasonably commit to this position?

    2-3

    4. What hockey or leadership skills or experience would you bring to FYHA?

    Good with kids and helping them

    5. List all professional skills or qualifications you would bring to FYHA.

    Good with dealing with people and have a broad spectrum of knowledge on mechanical stuff

    6. What is the most important improvement you would like to see with FYHA and how would you contribute to this improvement effort? 

    Help make sure we have a great facility and kids have the best equipment

    7. Please add any additional comments you would like to share: 

    Help support the arena in any way would like to get involved with all the equipment like Zamboni and boilers to be able to help put my knowledge of maintenance and equipment to work for the arena and the association.

     

    Weather Related Information

    Cancellation of Hockey Practices and Games
    Please use your discretion for all TRAVEL-RELATED events.

    Practices:  FYHA will follow the National Weather Service.  If Martin County is in a Winter Weather Warning, Blizzard Warning, or Tornado Warning for the scheduled time period of upcoming events, all practices will be canceled.

    Games:  Game cancellation for weather or other events will be handled on a case by case basis.  District games need to include the District President in the decision.

    Cancellations or postponements will be posted on Facebook. Like and follow our Facebook page for updates. Announcements of cancellations due to weather will be broadcast on the local radio station KSUM/KMFC and players/parents will be contacted by their coach or team coordinator.   Notifications will also be sent when possible using Sports Engine.

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