Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1542712
J A N / F E B 2 0 2 6 | M H J ON L I N E . C O M 13 MHJ // How have your previous experiences prepared you for this role? MD // I'm a hockey player myself, having played White Bear Lake youth hockey, high school hockey at Hill-Murray, and college hockey at Gustavus Adolphus College. Through hard work and dedication over many years of officiating, I've been given some unique and exciting experiences ranging from national to international, and also the professional women's leagues. The journey has kept me humble, motivated and appreciative along the way. SB // My previous experience from playing at a high level definitely helps me have an understanding of the game and the high emotions and intensity that go along with it. My experience over the years working at some of the highest levels of hockey have gotten me ready and used to working at the level of play. MHJ // What are you hoping other female officials will learn from your story? MD // Be the best you can be and start by being a good human being. At a certain level everyone is talented at what they do, but being a good person and a great teammate off the ice speaks volumes. SB // If I hadn't decided to give it a try with my friend 10 years ago, I wouldn't be where I am today. So don't be afraid to do things outside of your comfort zone once in a while, even if it scares you a little or makes you nervous. MHJ // What are you doing to prepare for the Olympics? MD // I'm a proponent of everything in moderation, including sports. After Women's Worlds in April, my skates were put away until mid-September. I spent my summer waterskiing, volunteering, working around the house and at the lake, and trying to tire out my 1-year-old Black Lab puppy. SB // Continuing to work the levels of hockey that got me here, making sure that I am in shape, healthy and staying up and refreshed on my rule knowledge with the changes and updates that come up every season. Try to be ready for any weird situations that can come up that maybe don't happen very often. Minnesota's hockey culture has some incredible historical roots. Kids, like me, grew up learning about great hockey players (having role models at all levels) and playing in historical arenas. Like many kids, I grew up learning how to skate on the lake and played pond hockey after school." - MELISSA DOYLE You never know what you might end up being good at or enjoying if you don't try it. Whether it's officiating like me or anything else." - SARAH BUCKNER