GDI Southeast first spoke to University of Michigan Freshman and GDI Southeast affiliated goaltender Steve Racine this week to find out what it took to reach his college goals and what he thinks it will take to play moving forward.

Q1: You are at the University of Michigan this fall preparing for your freshman year. How did this opportunity present itself?

A: I started talking to the coaches at Michigan last summer. I was able to have a strong season at both Westside in the BCHL and Georgetown in the OJHL and luckily attracted a few offers. I decided after my visit to Michigan in February that this was the place for me because of its great hockey program, outstanding academics, and opportunity to play right away.

Q2: You played on many Junior teams in many leagues leading up to this, when it wasn’t looking like a collegiate opportunity would present itself, how did you persevere?

A: After two successful seasons at the Taft School, I decided to leave before my senior year to play in the USHL for the Lincoln Stars. I made the classic mistake of rushing into junior hockey when I wasn’t ready physically and especially mentally. My first two years were a learning curve, as I faced much adversity. Ultimately, I used the lessons learned from those hard times to my advantage. I trusted in my ability and only what I could control. I learned it is not about where you play, but how you play and how much. These experiences have made me stronger and more prepared for the next part of my career.

Q3: What is your approach coming into the season knowing that you and fellow Freshman Jared Rutledge (USNTDP) will be battling for the net?

A: First of all, my approach will be to work my very hardest every day. In the situation I am in, you cannot worry about what other guys are doing. I have to make sure that I am at my very best every day.

Q4: Are you thinking short term or long term when it comes to development and what are those goals?

A: Right now I am thinking about what I need to do to perform at my best and make an impact on the team. I am learning to live and train in the present. I need to focus on the now rather than what the future holds because that is out my control.

Q5: You have been a student of many schools and spent many hours analyzing your game; where do you see the position headed?

A: I see the position heading towards a much more athletic game rather than a blocking and positional one. The game is becoming quicker and I feel the most successful goalies are the ones that move the best, are flexible, have good hands, and great scramble/battle ability. With all that said, fundamentals are extremely important and technique is the building block for consistent success.

Thank you Steve, best of luck this season, we’ll be watching.