Words from the publisher...

Hockey season is here!

It’s like Christmas morning, right?

Is it just me, or did this summer seem longer than normal?

Last year’s hockey season seems like an eternity ago.

I digress.

The new season has started and from everything I have seen and been sent by associations, parents and coaches, the season is off to a great start.

Labor Day Weekend always seems to be the unofficial start of the season.

While many families use that weekend to get one last getaway before the school year begins, hockey families are already at the rink, cheering on their kids, win, lose or draw.

When I see photos from youth hockey tournaments, there is always one thing that stands out more than others. It’s not the tourna- ment championship team pictures, though those are fun, but it’s finding game photos with kids smiling from ear to ear.

That’s what it’s all about, you know?

Sure, kids may remember winning games or tournaments, but it’s those lifelong bonds and passion for the game they are developing, whether they realize it or not.

I’m looking forward to seeing many more smiles over the next 6-7 months. In addition, junior hockey has started in some parts of the country, college hockey is approaching, and the pro game is on the horizon.

And we’ll be here for it all. We can’t wait!

Just remember to keep smiling, kids.

As always, remember to keep supporting Rubber Hockey!

Contact me any time at (248) 890-3944 (call/text) and by email at matt@rubberhockey.com.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Mastay

Continued from Page 1 ership obviously runs in the family. “My leadership style is show don’t tell,” said Mastay. “I show up every day and hold myself to a high standard and try to make everyone around me better. I’ve learned a lot from my past captains. Josh German has an intensity and compete level that is infectious. Cody taught me how to lead with actions. It never mattered what the situation was. He was ready and willing to do whatever it takes to win.”

Over his two seasons with the Jets, Mastay has tallied seven goals and 24 assists for 31 points in 78 regularseason games. He has added three goals and seven points in 14 postseason games.

In 2021-22, Mastay earned a call- up to the NCDC’s Twin City Thunder, picking up an assist in one game.

Mastay said he is definitely looking to add to those totals this season.

“My expectation for the team is to win our last game,” said Mastay. “Only one team does it every year and there is no team in hockey that has more to play for this season.”

Back in April, Jets teammate Braydin Lewis lost his courageous battle with cancer. The team is dedicating this season to Lewis.

“This year means a lot more than any other,” Mastay said. “We are playing for Braydin Lewis. Being side by side with him throughout his battle, he is my inspiration. There is nothing I want more than to get a big fat ring with his name on it.”

Growing up in Colorado, Mastay played for the Hyland Hills Jaguars, Boulder Bison, Colorado Evolution, and Colorado Springs Tigers.