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Jake Menz - U16 Elite Player Bio (6th Cyclones Season)

By Cyclones Board, 10/05/16, 10:30AM EDT

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1. What made you want to be a NYC Cyclone?

Cyclones represented the next level of hockey for me, and, knowing some people personally who already played there, I felt comfortable joining an organization that I knew would welcome me and make me feel at home. 

2. How did the NYC Cyclones help shape the player you are today?

The Cyclones required of me a certain work ethic that I had never before employed in hockey. With the Cyclones, I learned that in order to be successful and play to to best of my ability, from the moment I stepped on the ice to the moment I stepped off it, I would have to put 100% effort into everything I did, and that work ethic is something I try to carry with me every day. 

3. What was the most important lesson you learned as a player with the NYC Cyclones?

The most important lesson I learned as a Cyclone was how to deal with the tough times and work towards better ones. Sometimes in hockey, and in life, you will lose, but the Cyclones taught me to always keep a goal in my mind, one that motivates me to work harder, so that the next time I face a tough challenge, I come out on top. 

4. What was the highlight during your time with the NYC Cyclones?

The highlight of my Cyclones career (so far) was qualifying for, attending, and reaching the semi-finals in the New York State Championships in the 2012-13 season, during my PeeWee Major year. The goal of reaching "States" was set from the first practice, and to see that dream become a reality, as a result of our hard work and determination, was a great experience. 

5. Why do you think your NYC Cyclones teams had such success?

I believe that my Cyclones teams had so much success because we understood what it took to be successful. My teammates have been some of the most dedicated people I know, and they have always approached everything with a comprehension of, and dedication to, the work it requires to be successful. 

6. Where are you playing now and how did the Cyclones prepare you to compete at your current level?

I am still playing with the Cyclones. As each year progresses, the competition seems to get tougher. Each year, however, we rise to the occasion and play at higher levels than we ever believed we could. I have improved in all aspects of my game since joining the Cyclones, and I owe that to all the coaches and players that I have encountered here, as well as the environment of hard work and fun that the Cyclones organization has fostered.