Brody L. '26: Skating Towards Success

Brody adjusts his seat and gets comfortable, a wall of hockey sticks and memorabilia displayed behind him. Fresh from wrapping up his classes for the day, he’s filled with energy as I comment on how he manages to balance his packed schedule. He laughs, brushing off my amazement with a grin, saying, “I have freedom.” For Brody, freedom means structuring his day to include skating, working out, classes, and time to relax with friends. This chance to shape his own path, both on and off the ice, is something he deeply values.

With this freedom has come some of Brody’s biggest academic “wins.” He’s especially proud of his work in his English course, which he completed with an A over the summer. “I’m learning at such a high level, and I’m learning more than I ever did at my previous school. Because now, I’m engaged. I’m focused.” He credits his teachers at Prestans for creating an environment where he feels supported and encouraged: “They are so nice,” he emphasizes. For Brody, this positive academic experience rivals even his achievements in hockey.

Balancing both worlds isn’t always easy, especially for someone who began skating at three and has been focused on the sport ever since. Hockey is as much a part of his life as school, and with aspirations to play at the collegiate level, Brody already has his sights on universities that offer both top-tier academics and a strong hockey program. Referred to Prestans by a Yale coach, he’s found a school here that fits his vision for academic and athletic excellence.

When asked what keeps him passionate about hockey, Brody smiles and admits, “I’m really competitive. When my team wins a game or I score a goal, it’s just joy. It sparks joy for me.” The camaraderie he shares with his teammates is special to him; each player, he says, is integrated into the team, working together in a way that allows everyone to shine individually while being part of something bigger.

Brody’s love for team effort carries over into his academic life as well. “When you put in the work, you get something from the work...whether it’s writing a paper or working on a shot, those extra two hours can lead to the coolest feeling. The work really pays off.” His sense of balance shines here–he’s a focused student, a driven hockey player, and a person who knows that taking time to recharge with friends and enjoy life off the ice is just as important as the next game or exam.

Brody’s journey is a reminder that drive and balance are powerful teammates. Whether it’s the satisfaction of scoring a goal on the ice or acing a class he once thought might be out of reach, he’s learned that effort and commitment pave the way to success. As he continues to grow both academically and athletically, Brody keeps his focus on the future, one where he can bring his passion, hard work, and love of teamwork to the next level. For Brody, his commitment–to his studies, his sport, and the people around him–is what makes the wins, both on and off the ice, truly worth it.