Sixth grader Samantha Evans from Flagstaff is demonstrating that dedication and hard work can help middle school students achieve their athletic dreams. Known as Sami, she is an ice hockey goalie who was inspired by watching her father play. She began playing the sport at the age of five and switched to the goalie position after a year because she enjoyed the challenge.
This summer, Sami played for the Western Selects, a top-tier AAA youth girls’ hockey league. Despite being one of the youngest players on her team, she earned MVP/Player of the Game awards and achieved two shutouts. Sami also travels to play with two Arizona teams: the Arizona Kachinas in Gilbert and the Arizona Titans in Phoenix.
Balancing her busy travel schedule with schoolwork is challenging, but Sami attends ASU Prep Digital, which offers her flexibility in managing both commitments. “It teaches me how to manage my school day and be responsible,” she said. “It can be hard to manage school while I’m traveling for hockey all the time. My teachers, parents and learning success coach help me stay organized and support me so I feel confident to do both.”
Sami has aspirations to play goaltender for ASU’s women’s hockey team or another Division 1 team in the future. Beyond sports, she hopes to pursue a career in aerospace engineering.
ASU Preparatory Academy Digital supports student-athletes like Sami who are preparing for future opportunities while competing at high levels in their sports.
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