Trainor’s slice of life on the ice An inside look at Eastside Star’s hockey player Nolan Trainor’s passion

Jada Price-Williams PHOTO EDITOR

It’s the first day of hockey tryouts: pucks drop, skates scrape, and whistles blow. The Eastside Stars hockey team is made up of players from East Lansing, Holt, Okemos, Eaton Rapids, and Haslett. The team is full of hard working, phenomenal players including, junior Nolan Trainor.

Trainor was four years old when he started showing an interest in the sport, as well as excelling academically.

“When I first touched the ice, I felt uncomfortable, and nervous, but after I got used to it, I felt more comfortable,” Trainor said.

Trainor always looked up to his cousin, Drew Miller, who also played hockey. Miller was his role model, “his idol”, in his words, that’s why he was so keen to follow in his footsteps.

“I used to go to his games when he played for the Red Wings, and I always thought he was a great player. And the succes that he brought and the energy inside the building ... I want the same thing for myself. He motivates me to improve and hopefully, one day, I can go to the big leagues like he did,” Trainor said.

Trainor has played for many teams and always has the support of his family, but has had some ups and downs in his path.

His parents divorced when he was only three years old. It impacts hockey most when one parent shows up to his games and not the other, which is not ideal because he wants both there, but Trainor seems to get through it and not let it affect his performance on the ice or off.

“Having to switch houses and bring clothes and my equipment and to make sure not to forget anything is kinda stressful, in a way, because its just a lot having to move house to house every week, but I manage to do it anyways,” said Trainor.

Trainor has always been a hard working individual to make his hockey dreams come true.

He shared his story and how he became the motivated and positive player he is today. For instance he explained how he is optimistic that they will win against their rival Cap City this year, but if they, don’t then he plans to his senior year.

“In the future, I hope to potentially get scouted to play for the minor leagues or college leagues. However, I hope to enjoy the last two years of high school hockey,” said Trainor.

In the end, Trainor has always been and outgoing student athlete. He would describe himself as a devoted and hard working individual on and off the ice.

He has and always will have the support of his family, and he hopes to excel and succeed at the sport and life itself, and wishes to get even better next hockey season.

Trainor said, “Next year, I hope to still play for the Eastside Stars again, and I’m also looking forward to seeing what college paths may come my way.”