She’s good at both ends of the rink

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 18/10/2016 (1121 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Sarah Dennehy is a 15-year-old Grade 10 student at St. Mary’s Academy who believes in working hard.

"Work hard and dream big. You can accomplish any goal if you work hard,"  she says.

In her case, Sarah is proving hard work pays off both in the classroom, with marks in the high 80s or low 90s, and in hockey, where her game is opening eyes and opportunities.
Sarah plays centre for the St. Mary’s Flames prep hockey team.

"I have been playing hockey for seven years," she says. "I like taking face-offs, being committed defensively, and scoring goals."

It sounds like Sarah models her game after the very best, and she does.

"My favourite player is Steven Stamkos. What I really like about hockey is how much of a team sport it is. I have always enjoyed skating, and overall I really like being in the competitive environment of the game."

With Sarah’s commitment to good grades and her work ethic on the ice, she has kept her options open for what looks like a bright future.

"One of my goals is to play Division I  (NCAA college) hockey in the States," she says.

Sarah understands the level of hard work it will take for her to reach her goal, and is very thankful for her teammates and coaches.

"We have such a great group of girls, and our coaches are fantastic, too."

Sarah lives in Island Lakes with her dad Mike, mom Susan, sister Hanna, and brother Brendan.
She feels very fortunate to have their constant and unwavering support.

"My parents are my biggest supporters. They encourage me to do all the things I do in my daily life. I am very lucky and thankful for them."

Sarah’s work ethic and dedication to being her best comes through very quickly in conversation, especially when the topic turns to, of all things, backchecking.

"When we lose possession and I’m deep in the offensive zone, I put everything into getting back and supporting my defence and keeping the puck out of our net."
And that’s the way to play the game.

Former Winnipeg Blue Bombers kicker Troy Westwood is co-host of The Big Show, every weekday morning from 6 to 10 a.m. on TSN 1290 radio. He writes about Winnipeg’s unsung sports heroes every other week in the Canstar Community News weeklies. If you know of an athlete whose story Troy should tell, contact him at: troy.westwood@bellmedia.ca