With the Jesuit Dallas hockey State Tournament around the road. The Jesuit Dallas hockey team has been preparing more than ever. Leading this, Coach Nick Hinkley and Assistant Coach Rob Reed prepare to secure Jesuit’s 5th consecutive State Championship.
What was your early life like, and how did hockey influence it?
“Athletics was always a critical part of developing who I am today. I played three sports all the way into college, and the lessons I learned from them about commitment, accountability, and being a part of a team carry over into all aspects of my life. Hockey was one of the biggest influences because it takes an entire team to work together to win. You spend the most time with your teammates before, during, and after competition than in any other sport. Hence, it teaches you to deal with a wide range of people and personalities and work together to accomplish a common goal.”
What caused you to come to Dallas after coaching at Yorktown High school in Virginia?
“I’ve always loved Dallas and knew a handful of people here. Whenever I visited, Dallas always felt like home. I sell software during the day, so when I had an opportunity to move into a new role and live here, I ran with it. I knew I wanted to continue coaching hockey, and after the success, I had to rebuild Yorktown in DC; I started asking around to various high school teams and came across an opening at Highland Park.”
What caused you to become a coach at Jesuit?
“Coaching is a true passion of mine, and I’m always pursuing excellence. I knew I wanted to be a head coach again and build the strongest program in Texas and also be a positive influence for quality young men. Jesuit was an easy choice because of the high achieving students and faculty.”
How was your transition from a Highland Park to a Jesuit coach?
“The transition was fairly easy. I knew my experience playing and coaching at a high level would translate well. The standard of excellence and culture Dallas Jesuit provides, both academically and athletically, for its students and staff made it my top choice, and I knew it was a place I could be an agent of change and success for the Jesuit community.”
What do you believe is the greatest advantage that Jesuit Dallas has in the upcoming State Tournament?
“The most significant advantage we have had going into the state tournament is our players are true “men for others.” We practice, work out, and spend more time off the ice together than any other team in Texas. Our players work and play for each other, making us the strongest unit possible and will ultimately be the catalyst that leads us to success.”
The Jesuit Dallas Hockey team will began their State Championship run on January 24 (Tuesday) at 6 pm against Allen high school in Starcenter – Comerica Center. They will play their second game on January 28 (Saturday) at 3:15 pm against Strake Jesuit in Starcenter – Valley Ranch.
