Discipline on Ice by Braeden

Discipline on Ice by Braeden - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

The crisp sound of my skate slicing through the exquisitely smooth ice rings in my head as I step onto the ice. The stinging coldness of the air invigorates me, and the dull thud of a puck off the boards in the distance surrounds me. This year, everything is crisp: become a better student, a better player, a better person, to cap off my high school hockey career with a championship. My interest in hockey and college aspirations push me relentlessly to succeed.
Academic achievement is my priority. I desire to maintain a 3.8 G.P.A while engaged in clubs and extracurricular activities. One evening, with a math assignment due the next day and a vicious 6 AM hockey practice looming, I found myself in the school library. As midnight approached, I divided my time carefully between completing equations and preparing for practice. Through organizing my assignments and keeping them balanced, I build resilience and discipline that benefit both my academics and sports.
As hockey season draws near, I will utilize my discipline to drive and serve my team, regardless of position. I will work to establish certain routines, including calling pre-game huddles in which I can pass along strategy and encourage my teammates and weekly study-hall check-ins to ensure my teammates keep books in line with athletics. My experiences set an example for younger teammates and maintain our culture. Juggling practices and games will also confirm my school commitment and help me improve as a two-way player through perseverance and coach criticism.
As I continue on, I'm invigorated and excited by the challenges and opportunities this school year has to offer. Whether I'm fighting against a tough rival on the ice or cramming for an important test, I'm going to give it my all. Each morning begins with a daily ritual of waking up at 5 AM to review notes and get my equipment ready for the day. I work through a set of drills that challenge my agility and concentration. This time is not only for perfecting physical abilities, but also for meditative reflection upon my objectives. Hockey instills discipline in me and provides me with experiences to share with the up-and-coming generation of players. Most of all, I will hone skills that will carry over to college and beyond.