Before every game he’s set to start, goaltender Adam Carlson jogs the Grandad Bluff overlooking La Crosse, Wis. The mesa neighbors Onalaska where Carlson plays for the Coulee Region Chill of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). It’s a peaceful vista where the Edina native can clear his mind in preparation for the night’s game.

The scenic view is a stark contrast to Carlson’s young hockey career; a climb over the rocky bluffs might be more representative of his ascent to junior hockey, as the 19-year-old took an unlikely route to the NAHL.

Contrary to many teenagers who find themselves playing junior hockey, Carlson wasn’t a highly sought after high school standout. In fact, the netminder was cut from the varsity team in his senior year at the talent-laced Edina High School.

However, this being the State of Hockey, there is a place for like-minded high schoolers who still want to play the sport: Minnesota's Junior Gold league.