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By Ryan Mayers

Communications Coordinator

For Austin High School senior Allie Davidson, hockey has always been a way of life.

“I’ve played for about 16 years,” she says, leaning back in her chair. We’re sitting in the Austin High School Career Center talking about hockey and the Hobey Baker High School Character award. “My dad played a big part in it. He coached me for a long time, and it was just something he wanted me to do when I was younger.”

Hockey runs in the Davidson family with both her father and older sister being involved in the sport. “I can remember being young and looking up to my sister. She played a big part in my hockey journey and she, my dad, and my mom have all been there to support me every step of the way.”

All the support and dedication have paid off as Allie, a captain for the AHS Girls Hockey team, was this year named a recipient of the Hobey Baker High School Character Award, which recognizes leadership and character among high school hockey players. “Hobey Baker was a monumental figure in hockey, so receiving this award is a great honor,” she said.

This year’s award recipients attended an awards dinner and a Minnesota Wild hockey game in celebration of their achievement, something Allie says was a very cool way to be recognized.

When asked about the importance of character, Allie said “its always been about striving to make sure I’m showing character to the younger girls, being a good example, and showing them this is how you should be and working to be both a positive example and a leader for everyone on the team.” This year’s team was very young and struggled a bit during the season, putting up a record of 5-20-1, but Allie stressed the potential on the squad.

“The talent they have is amazing, and it’ll be great to see where they go from here. Having role models, especially for younger players, is huge when it comes to development, and I just hope I was able to have an impact,” she said.

For now, Allie hopes her younger teammates have seen and recognized the importance of character and being passionate about the things you care about.

“Always believe in and stay true to yourself,” she says. “Always try to have a positive attitude even if the games aren’t going well or you’re having a struggling season. Just be a good example for everyone around you because even one person can really impact the team and make it so much better.”

When asked what’s next, Allie says she hasn’t decided whether to continue pursuing hockey, but the lessons she’s learned when it comes to character and leadership will be invaluable to her moving forward.

“One of the great things about finding something you’re passionate about is being able to take those lessons and apply them elsewhere. I definitely think what I’ve learned about character and leadership will help me in my life,” she said.