O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 | M H J ON L I N E . C O M
11
A FROZEN LAKE
Minnetonka, sharp-
ened skates, a puck
and stick along with
family and friends
playing endless
games of pickup—how can you not be
romantic about hockey?
That's where Tonka Bay native and
current Toronto Maple Leaf defen
-
seman Justin Holl learned to love
the game.
"Those are my earliest memories of
playing, and my fondest as well," said
Holl, who began skating at the age
of 3. "It's hockey in its purest form,
playing outside. It's important to have
that free time to work on your skills,
do a little research and development
by finding out what works and what
doesn't. You can't beat it."
Holl, 29, still makes a point to enjoy
an outdoor game or two when he can,
though these days he's more con
-
cerned with the indoor ice of the NHL,
seeing his hard work pay dividends as
he's earning himself a more perma-
nent role on the Maple Leafs blue line
the past two seasons.
We caught up with Holl to talk hard
work in all facets of life.
Toronto Maple
Leafs defenseman
Justin Holl has
earned his keep
