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Q&A M H J ON L I N E . C O M | M A R C H 2 0 1 8 16 MHJ // The hockey culture in Minnesota is second to none. How do you think this community has helped you become a better player? Beltz // In Minnesota, it seems like we're all just crazy hockey fans. We all help each other to get better and push each other. I think everyone is kind of a little community and we all love hockey and playing the game. MHJ // What do you enjoy doing in your community of Sleepy Eye when you're not playing hockey? Beltz // I referee and officiate youth hockey games during the hockey season as my way of giving back to those who have allowed me to play the game I love. I've been a USA youth hockey official the past four years—reffing on weekends at my hometown rink in Sleepy Eye. MHJ // Senior year is almost over, but you're not done playing hockey as you're headed to UW-River Falls to play. Has it always been a dream of yours to play col- lege hockey? Beltz // Ever since I was a little girl I always want- ed to play college hockey. I'm so excited and happy. I'm from a really small town, so it fits me a lot. They have my major, which is pre-physical thera- py. I love the campus there and the team is doing really well. I've met some of the girls on the team and they're really fun, so I can't wait. It's also only two and a half hours from home. That's definitely a big part of it, so my family can come to games. with Ali Beltz Photos courtesy of Ali Beltz Favorite subject in school: Math Favorite kind of music: Country Favorite meal: Sesame chicken with rice What's one skill you would love to learn: I've always wanted to play lacrosse Most used emoji: Definitely the laughing-crying one BELTZ BLITZ What is your most embarrassing moment? Before one of my games, I had my skate guards on. I didn't even know. I kept falling and trying to get up. ? MHJ // Besides hockey, what are your favorite Minnesota activities during the summer and winter? Beltz // In the summer, probably my favorite thing to do is go to a lake near Alexandria with my family. We go boating, tubing and skiing. I love water activities and campfires in the summer. In the winter, I like sledding with all my friends, and playing out in the snow is fun. Obviously outdoor hockey is fun, too. "In Minnesota, it seems like we're all just crazy hockey fans. We all help each other to get better and push each other. I think everyone is kind of a little community and we all love hockey and playing the game." – Ali Beltz