Mountaineer Minutes

Whiddon commits to Mercyhurst

  By: Kelsey Lynch and Wes Moon

Megan Whiddon

LAKE PLACID--National Sports Academy has something to celebrate this week, as Junior Megan Whiddon made a verbal commitment to Mercyhurst. At just 10 years old, Whiddon could not even comprehend the idea of playing college hockey, as she took her first step on the ice, forgetting to remove her skate guards.

At the age of 15, Whiddon made the decision to leave behind her family and friends in Redondo Beach, California to pursue her hockey ambitions. Although it was difficult to adjust to a new environment, Whiddon somehow made it all work.

When I sat down with NSA Head Coach, BIll Ward, he remembered Whiddon's 2010-11 season, her first one at NSA.

"She was young and had trouble adjusting to the everyday intensity," he said. "But, she was aware she took days or shifts off." Whiddon finished the season with 23 goals, 17 assists, and ending with 40 points total.

When Whiddon returned to school in the fall of 2011, her focus was taken to the next level. She " made a big academic jump,” Ward commented, which landed her on honor role for three quarters. Her improvements did not stop in the classroom; on the ice Whiddon was improving everyday.

Ward began to get into specifics regarding Whiddon's strengths and areas where she needs improvement. Whiddon is a "strong skater, has good hands, and has the ability to set up her teammates." Ward would like to see her improve on her, "defensive play and wants her to shoot the puck more because she is capable.”

As the NSA Mountaineers fell to Chicago Mission at Nationals, Whiddon’s 2011-12 season came to an end. She finished the season with 46 goals, 62 assists, for a combined total of 108 points. Whiddon was able to get 132 more shots on net then her previous season. As Whiddon was able to improve her game, her dream of playing D1 hockey became more realistic.

As her college process started she began getting looks from many top-notch D1 hockey programs. After exploring her options she was most impressed by Mercyhurst, which is located in Erie, PA. Whiddon then explained in detail her visit and what influenced her decision.

Whiddon puts one top right over Pride goalie.

“When I visited the school the coaches were welcoming, I loved the campus, and the team chemistry.” As she sat down with her future coaches they expressed their interest and offered her a full athletic scholarship.  Whiddon accepted and will officially become a Mercyhurst Laker in the fall of 2013.

When I asked about her biggest fear she answered, “ I’m nervous for a new environment, being prepares physically, and maintaining good grades.” Although it is normal to feel nervous about a new adventure Whiddon did mention she was also excited for, “ the higher level of play and the freedom that comes along with the college experience.”

With senior year just a few months away Whiddon and Ward have come up with goals and expectations for the upcoming season.

Whiddon will use her senior year to, “Concentrate on my game, to stay on honor roll, and to increase my SAT scores.” With that being said, Ward has athletic goals as well. “ As a senior I expect her to be a leader, a goal scorer, and a good mentor now that she has gone through the experience.”

Ward added, “It’s good for Megan and the program that she has a commitment now she can concentrate on improving athletically and academically.”

Whiddon smiled and said, “ the process is over and I’m glad.”