"I have always known how to skate like I know how to walk"
For the past nine years, ice hockey has been more than just a sport—it has been a constant companion through life’s highs and lows. From playing professionally in Beijing to competing with a Canadian district team and finally to a U.S. boarding school, hockey has shaped me beyond the rink. It has given me unforgettable experiences, lifelong friendships, and lessons that benefited me for life. It has become part of my identity.
As a goalie, I play aggressively at the top of the crease, relying on reflexes and patience to control the game. In life, I approach the challenges with the same mindset: proactively, creatively, and with resilience. The same qualities that define my athletic instincts—quick thinking, adaptability, and dynamic problem-solving—define my academic mindset, too.
Start of the Journey
In 2015, I joined the Beijing Women's Ice Hockey Junior Team as their goalie - a position demanding great resilience and leadership. Our team of 15 players, all from diverse backgrounds across the city, spent the next six years traveling together, training relentlessly, and battling side by side on the ice.
In Canada
In 2021, as my family moved to Canada in pursuit of better educational and athletic opportunities, I faced the natural challenges of cultural adjustment. Hockey became my unexpected social anchor. Through the welcome of my teammates, I discovered more than acceptance—I found genuine belonging.
In the U.S.
"A year later, I was admitted to NMH, a prestigious boarding school in Massachusetts. This new environment elevated both my academic and athletic growth, pushing me to refine my time management, sharpen my learning strategies, and strengthen my communication skills."
Yet, ice hockey revealed a global gap in support for female athletes — and sparked my drive to champion underrepresented voices.
As I navigated my journey in hockey—from playing on a professional team in Beijing to competing in Canada and at U.S. boarding schools—I uncovered a harsh reality for Chinese hockey players. In China, young athletes are often forced to choose between academics and their athletic passions due to a lack of support, resources, and viable pathways for student-athletes. Many abandon their education at a young age, only to face stagnant lives when their athletic careers end, often as early as age 28. Without an academic foundation, transitioning into other fields becomes a daunting challenge.
In contrast, student-athletes in Canada and the U.S. enjoy greater opportunities. They are supported in pursuing both academic and athletic excellence, giving them a foundation to thrive beyond sports. This documentary weaves together my personal experiences and the stories of others, highlighting the disparity in opportunities and the urgent need for a better system to support young athletes in China. Through this lens, I explore the potential for change and the hope of building a future where no one has to choose between their dreams on the ice and their academic ambitions.
Motivated by these discoveries, I took action to address this issue at my internship at Polar Sports a company dedicated to helping Asian athletes apply to U.S. boarding schools and colleges, bridging the gap between sports and academics.
I focused on marketing efforts, articulating the company's mission to prospective clients and emphasizing the importance of a balanced student-athlete pathway. I also contributed to media editing, ensuring professional and engaging content for outreach. Additionally, I supported athletes with interview preparation, helping them confidently present their stories and aspirations. Through this role, I gained valuable insights into advocacy, communication, and creating opportunities for young athletes to pursue their dreams without compromise.