Minnesota Hockey is excited to reveal the finalists for the 2014 HEP Essay Contest, presented by Park Dental. Youth players of all ages and from around the state submitted entries on how “I can make my team better by…” On Hockey Day Minnesota, each of the finalists’ essays will be highlighted, and the winner will be announced.

Overall, this year’s essays were a fantastic reflection of how providing youth hockey players with a positive, well-rounded athletic experience can instill lessons beyond the skills of our beloved game.  Many of the entries showcased the wealth of knowledge our young athletes have gained through participation, with some touching on tough topics like bullying, handling a winless season and how to ensure everyone maintains their sportsmanship during even the most intense moments.

With that said, you won’t want to miss the Fox Sports North broadcast of Hockey Day Minnesota 2014 on Saturday, January 18th as they will highlight each of the following finalists’ essays over the course of the day:

• Cameron Pietrusa, a Squirt from Hermantown Area Hockey Association
• Joslin Mumm, a 10U A player from Coon Rapids Youth Hockey Association
• Owen Faste, a Squirt from Chisago Lakes Hockey Association

By tuning in to Fox Sports North on Hockey Day Minnesota you can also find out who the randomly selected winner will be.  The contest winner will receive a “dream day” experience on a Minnesota Wild game day during the 2014-15 season.

For a sneak peek of what is to come, here is a look back at the winner of our 2013 HEP Essay Contest winner, Sam Lahl.