Team USA forward Kendall Coyne (Palos Heights, Ill.), who is off to a strong start in the preliminary round of the IIHF Women's World Championship, recently sat down and discussed the challenges of adjusting to a new life this past year and balancing more than just hockey.
Since graduating last spring from Northeastern University, Coyne has continued to pursue her master’s degree from Northeastern and started working part-time for the Chicago Blackhawks, all while adjusting to a new life in Denver and training rigorously to stay in game shape.
“Routines are a little different compared to when you’re in college,” explained Coyne. “I used to practice, lift, do homework and do it all over again the next day. “Now I’m lifting everyday and skating 3-4 times per week while also balancing my part-time job and my master’s program. I think you have to be pretty mentally strong and intrinsically motivated to balance it all.”
Coyne’s role with the Blackhawks is within Chicago’s fan development department, where she often gives back to the local community by attending events and talking to children as a spokesperson for the Blackhawks.
“My role with the Blackhawks really brings me back to my foundation of why I play this game,” said Coyne, who currently has six points (3-3) in three games here at the 2017 IIHF Women’s World Championship. “Seeing the smiles on kid’s faces makes me love what I do.”
For complete coverage of Team USA at the 2017 IIHF Women’s World Championship, click here.
Date | Opponent | Round | Time (ET)/Result | U.S. Player of Game |
---|---|---|---|---|
Fri., March 31 | Canada | Preliminary | W, 2-0 | Nicole Hensley |
Sat., April 1 | Russia | Preliminary | W, 7-0 | Kendall Coyne |
Mon., April 3 | Finland | Preliminary | W, 5-3 | Hannah Brandt |
Thurs., April 6 | Germany | Semifinal | W, 11-0 | Kendall Coyne |
Fri., April 7 | Canada | Gold-Medal Game | W, 3-2 OT | Kacey Bellamy |