Michigan native working toward future with Spartans
Fresh off a solid performance at the recent Junior Chowder Cup and a commitment to Michigan State University, it might be easy for Tiernan Shoudy to rest on his laurels and enjoy some summer downtime. Not quite.
Instead, the 2002-born Little Ceasars U16 forward is spending his summer in overdrive, training both on and off the ice to continue to improve his game, a development process that first began when he was just 4 years old.
“I started playing hockey when I was 4 and played for the Port Huron Flags until I was 10,” said Shoudy. “I always had to watch my older brothers play so that is when my love for the game started, then when I could finally get on the ice myself, I just had the time of my life.”
Shoudy said his current summer routine is designed to help him improve his speed and get bigger and stronger, areas of his game he feels he needs to work on.
“I’ve been on the ice pretty much all summer at least once a week and have been doing three off ice sessions a week with a trainer, while also working out on my own time,” said Shoudy. “This will help me improve my skill set through the on-ice sessions, and the off-ice work will help me get bigger, stronger and faster.”
Shoudy’s love for the game, coupled with his hockey intelligence and quality coaching and playing opportunities, has led him to a NCAA Division 1 commitment and a bright future in the sport.
“I think I am a very smart player that plays a 200-foot game and competes offensively and defensively,” Shoudy added. “I am currently playing for coach Brian Rolston with the Little Caesars 16U AAA Team, and plan to improve on my skills and continue to learn from new coaches and more experienced teammates, ultimately taking my game to the next level.”
The 5’8, 148-pound left shot forward chose Michigan State after a quick recruiting process that saw several other unnamed schools also in the hunt for Shoudy.
“The process really started to speed up for me after the Michigan Development Camp,” said Shoudy. “The coaches were probably the biggest selling point in my decision to go to Michigan State, but the program also has a great history and Munn is a very nice arena. Also, it’s a great school in terms of the education.”
Neutral Zone had the opportunity to view Shoudy during the spring and early summer months prior to his commitment to Michigan State, giving him an “A-” grading at the 2017 USA Hockey U14 Nationals and a “B” grading at the Michigan Development Camp. Neutral Zone scouts also viewed Shoudy during last month’s Junior Chowder Cup, where he also received an “A-” grading.
Although he’s excited for his future with Michigan State, tentatively set to begin in 2020, Shoudy said he is focused on several near-term objectives including winning a national championship this coming season with Little Ceasars, and succeeding at the junior level in preparation for his first year with the Spartans.
Additionally, Shoudy made a point to recognize a number of individuals who have helped him during his hockey career and put him in a position to succeed.
“I definitely need to thank Kris Draper who has been my coach for the past 5 years,” said Shoudy. “Also, my current coach Brian Rolston, and other coaches including Craig Roehl, Paul Moretz, Bob King, and Scott Howe, as well as my skills instructors Trevor Edwards, Matt Warren, Shayne Tomlinson and Carol MacPherson.”
Sean Tallaire, Neutral Zone’s Michigan scout shared a few thoughts on Shoudy.
“Shoudy is a skilled player with high level hockey sense,” said Tallaire. “He controls the pace with his poise and puck handling and is able to slow it down and find the soft spots or press his opponents and make plays at full speed. He has the talent and vision combination that makes everyone around him better.”
To see all Neutral Zone scouting reports on Tiernan Shoudy, or to view his complete player profile, visit https://neutralzone.net/mens/player/tiernan-shoudy/ .
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling / Hickling Images
