Meet the rookies: Sarah Potomak

SARAH POTOMAK
Position: Forward
Hometown: Aldergrove, B.C.
Birthdate: December 19, 1997
Club Team: University of Minnesota (WCHA)

Road to Women’s Worlds
2003-05: Aldergrove Bruins (Novice C Boys)
2005-06: Burnaby Winter Club (Novice C Boys)
2006-07: Burnaby Winter Club (Atom A2 Boys)
2007-08: Burnaby Winter Club (Atom A1 Boys)
2008-09: Burnaby Winter Club (Peewee T2 Boys)
2009-10: Burnaby Winter Club (Peewee T2 Boys)
2010-15: Pursuit of Excellence Hockey Academy (Midget)
2015-17: University of Minnesota (NCAA)

Team Canada Experience
International debut: August 22, 2013 vs. United States
Canada’s National Women’s Team: 6GP 0G 1A 1P
Canada’s National Women’s Development Team: 12GP 2G 4A 6P
Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team: 16GP 11G 8A 19P

Who has played the biggest role in getting you to your first women’s worlds?
“My coaches and teammates growing up – from Aldergrove MHA, Burnaby Winter Club, Team Pacific, the Pursuit of Excellence, Impact Hockey and the University of Minnesota – have played a huge role in me making my first worlds. I was always pushed every day in practice, in the gym and in games to be the best player I can be. My family, from my siblings to my parents and grandparents, have also played a huge role in giving me every opportunity possible to reach my dreams, never letting me give up, and showing never-ending support and encouragement. Without my family I wouldn't be where I am today.”

When did you decide you wanted to play for Team Canada?
“I have always dreamed to play for Team Canada, but it really changed when I was 14 and I played in my first National Women’s U18 Championship with Team B.C. I was playing against the top players in the country, we got fourth place and I was awarded Top Forward. After that tournament I knew that I could actually play for Team Canada and continued to work my hardest for my dream to come true.”

What is the most important thing hockey has given you?
“Hockey has taught me so much in life, and I am so grateful for it. I have been taught time management, leadership, integrity, work ethic, confidence, responsibility, passion and competitiveness. Hockey is a huge part of my life and something I love. I think the biggest thing is the work ethic that I have naturally developed from it. In order to be the best you have to be the hardest worker, and that is something I will always remember and do because of hockey.”