Brandon Holt- University of Maine NCAA DI
The NM Ice Wolves organization itself was brand new when I first became a part of the team. Looking back now I realize how lucky I was. The coaching staff during my time was awesome, both fun and knowledgeable and I felt I had such an opportunity to develop as a player and a person. The owner, Stan Hubbard was also great as an owner. He was committed to making New Mexico a great spot for the players, going as far as to keep us in business during COVID when many other teams shut down, and also growing the game of hockey in the community. Speaking of the community, I thought our fan support was unreal. The community welcomed us with open arms and the fans sold out many of our games, creating a lively atmosphere for us to play our home games. The weather was also unbelievable. Not many hockey players can show up to practice in shorts and sandals year round, but the Ice Wolves can.
If I had to pinpoint just one thing what made my own personal experience so great, I would say it was the relationships I built, more specifically with my billet family. As an 18 year old kid leaving home for the first time, I was scared for sure. But, my host family, the Taliaferros: Hank, Kelly, Henry and Matthew were some of the best people I’ve met in my life. They made me feel at home so far away from my actual home and I cannot thank them enough. I, along with lots of other players, still stay in touch with my host family. Since leaving the team, my family and I have traveled back to Albuquerque once, and Hank, Kelly and the fam have come up North to Minnesota to visit us twice during different summers. I was lucky enough to grow up a part of one close family, but after my time in New Mexico I can say that I have 2. I can’t say enough about my host family experience as I built so many relationships that will last the rest of my life.
J.D Metz- University of St. Thomas NCAA DI
My time in New Mexico really helped me get to the next level. The staff and opportunities there are amazing. Being able to use the gym anytime and open ice before and after practice was crucial for my development. Not to mention the support from the community is unmatched around the league, and being from Minnesota it was the perfect place to get away from the cold for a while. Being able to be outside whether it was golfing, hiking, or hanging out at the pool with some of the guys was a great way to relax and make some memories.
Sully Scholle- University of Maine NCAA DI
New Mexico is a special place and a great place to play junior hockey. They were instrumental throughout my development in getting to the next level. New Mexico has a great organization and staff members that put their players first to understand them and help them reach their goals. It’s a great organization that has come a long way and is always looking for ways to improve and wants the best for the players.
Mitch Becker- University of Massachusetts-Lowell NCAA DI
New Mexico was a special place to play because of how much care there is in the organization. From the top down everyone there was always there for you if you needed it. The coaches were consistently helping me develop not only as a player but as a person and I am thankful for all they did for me while I was there. Finally, the billets I had while I was down there were like family and made it feel like home.
Joe Prouty- Lindenwood University NCAA DI
New Mexico is a great place to play and it was an amazing experience. The host families were outstanding and took care of me like I was their own. The ownership treated us like professionals and the facilities were top-notch. I was able to develop as a player behind the coach’s help and a great set-up at the rink. Albuquerque was a beautiful place to live with plenty to do. The best part of playing in New Mexico was the fans. Every night it was special to play in front of them, who showed up no matter if we were winning or losing. Overall, it was a great experience that allowed me to grow both as a player and as a person!