Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/774246
Jim Demann Minnesota Hockey Journal // Tell us about your hockey background. Jim DeMann // I grew up in Edina and my hockey career started when I was a Mite. I worked my way through Squirts, Peewees and Bantams. I tried to get on with the high school teams but I would get to the last tryout and get cut. I ended up playing Junior Gold so I could continue to play hockey in high school. When I look back at it, it's funny because of course at the time you're disappointed over the fact that you didn't make the [Varsity] team, but when I look back now I played way more hockey and probably had a lot more fun playing in the Junior Gold program than I would have playing with the high school team on the bench. MHJ // What sticks out to you most about your hockey days? JD // It's been a long time since I've played hockey, but when I look back, there are certain aspects of playing that really stick out for me. One is I had some good coaches and they really helped develop me as a person. I look at the coaches, these individuals just dads, and it was someone other than my dad; someone I would look up to that taught me all kinds of stuff. They taught me about dedication and that if you have a goal, it takes a lot of hard work to obtain that. Coaches, they push you beyond your comfort zone. Anybody that's played hockey or any sport really knows what that feels like. Once you've been through it and you get through that uncomfort- able state you realize that you can push yourself farther and I POLICE CHIEF WITH THE EDEN PRAIRIE POLICE DEPARTMENT FEBRUARY.2017 // MINNESOTAHOCKEYJOURNAL.COM 23 Editor's Note: We're proud to unveil a new series for 2017. The Hockey Effect: How youth hockey has shaped the lives of business professionals and community leaders in Minnesota. It's not just a game—it's a way of life. Know someone who should be featured? Email jessi@touchpointmedia.com to submit nominations.