ASPIRE Athlete Of The Week For Jan. 10: Andrew Rohkohl
EDINA, Minn. (WCCO) - Andrew Rohkohl says he's been working at being a goalie since he was a little kid.
"It's been a dream, really," Rohkohl said. "And it takes a lot of effort to get to this place."
He has become a part of the nucleus of a team that leans on veterans, according to Edina hockey coach and former NHL defensemen Curt Giles.
"He's a smart kid," Giles said. "The thing with him is he fits in perfectly. I mean, we got a good class of seniors with good leadership."
He's well aware that he's surrounded by offensive talent, which takes the pressure off the goalie.
"It gives me great confidence to have a great team behind me," Rohkohl said. "My defense and the offense, when they're putting up goals, it makes it a lot easier for me to stop the puck."
But he also stands alone, having developed his game.
"I think it's confidence and poise," Giles said. 'Not much bothers him. He's a pretty strong-willed kid. I mean, I think he's come to the point where he understands that he is a good high school goaltender."
For Rohkohl, the future is clear, even if he never puts the skates and pads on after high school.
"Actually, I want to become an engineer, go to college, get a good education. That's my goal," he said. "Maybe play hockey in my future. Whatever turns out."