Frank Fan

What is your personal goal in your hockey career?
- "In my hockey career, my ultimate goal is to maximize my potential as a player while maintaining my passion for the sport.

Hockey isn't just a game to me; it's an integral part of my identity that shapes who I am as a person. My primary aim is to continue deriving joy from playing hockey while continuously evolving and improving as both a player and an individual.

While some may aspire to play at the professional level, my focus lies elsewhere. My ambition is to reach the Division 1 college level. This choice isn't solely driven by on-ice success but also by the opportunities it presents for personal and academic growth.

Attaining a spot on a Division 1 college team would not only fulfill my athletic aspirations but also provide a platform for pursuing my passion for education. I envision myself balancing my commitment to hockey with academic pursuits, laying the groundwork for a future career in education.

Furthermore, I'm cognizant of the potential challenges that come with transitioning to professional hockey. The pressure of contracts and performance expectations could potentially dampen my love for the game. By setting my sights on college-level hockey, I aim to preserve my passion for hockey while also keeping doors open for future endeavors beyond the sport.

Ultimately, my goal isn't just about reaching a certain level of play but about finding fulfillment both on and off the ice. Division 1 college hockey offers me the opportunity to grow as a player, pursue my academic interests, and lay the foundation for a fulfilling future beyond hockey."

How would you describe your playing style and/or what role do you see yourself fitting on a team?
- "As I progress to higher levels of competition, I recognize that skill differentials among players diminish, with game understanding and execution becoming paramount. While I may not possess the sheer agility or physical prowess of some players, I pride myself on being a cerebral player. I meticulously assess each situation on the ice, opting for plays that promise the greatest impact on the game. My keen vision affords me a broader perspective, allowing me to anticipate plays and explore various options, both with and without possession of the puck.
Furthermore, I understand the importance of aligning with the coach's strategies and structures, as cohesive teamwork is essential for success. Thus, I make it a priority to comprehend and implement the coach's directives, facilitating a unified team performance.

Within the team dynamic, particularly in the locker room, I may not be the most vocal individual, but I forge positive connections with all my teammates. I believe in fostering a culture of kindness and camaraderie, treating others with the same respect I expect in return. Though I may not dominate conversations, I maintain meaningful friendships with many teammates, contributing to a positive team environment. Additionally, I take pride in attending to the small details, such as tidying up the locker room, as these actions signify my commitment to the team's well-being and cohesion."


If professional hockey player is not an option, what would you want to be when you grow up and why?
- "If pursuing a career as a professional hockey player isn't an option, my aspirations lean towards following in my mother's footsteps and becoming an educator.

Growing up, I had the privilege of attending the school where my mom serves as the K-12 Principal in Beijing, China. Unlike other schools, I eagerly looked forward to attending my mom's school every day. It was a place filled with support, positivity, and a sense of community among the faculty and students. Reflecting on those years, I often find myself reminiscing about the joyous moments spent with friends, playing soccer, and learning in an environment that left an indelible mark on me. Not only was it enjoyable, but it also provided a rigorous academic program, with advanced placement courses and accelerated curricula across all grade levels, which gave me a significant academic advantage.

Inspired by my experiences, I aspire to become an educator like my mother. I dream of establishing a school similar to hers, from the ground up, intending to leave a lasting impact on the lives of students, just as her school did for me. I envision creating a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment where students thrive academically and personally. Ultimately, I hope to inspire future generations of students to pursue their passions and aspirations, just as my mother's school inspired me to follow in her footsteps."