by Madisen Krapf

For young hockey players, every journey looks different, but the vision remains the same; make it to the pros.

The diversity of these paths in front of players is a piece of what can make the sport so special. Some move to a new country where they must learn the ways of a new culture. Some envelop the lifestyle and sport together entirely in the way of junior hockey in Canada. For Ryder Rolston, his path picked up speed in the NCAA, a likely point for an American player.

While pursuing his hockey dream at the University of Notre Dame-where he played 93 games and collected 53 points from 2020 to 2023-Rolston also took time to explore his interests off the ice. This led to a significant academic decision: shifting from business to film studies as a way to nurture his personal passions alongside his athletic aspirations

“Film and television was something that struck a chord with me” Rolston said. “I think in college, with the hours I was putting in, it was something I enjoyed doing.”

While Rolston’s academic journey took a unique turn, his love for hockey was set in motion long before college. Influenced by his father, Brian Rolston, a 17-year NHL veteran and 1995 Stanley Cup Champion, hockey has always been part of his life.

“There was nothing else I wanted to do,” Rolston shared. “I wanted to follow in his footsteps yet be able to kind of create my own path.”

Rolston notes that though he was born immersed into the sport, his love and passion for it is nothing but organic.

“I fell in love with the game at such a young age that the work ethic followed, and that’s kind of what got me into the game for good.”

In the AHL, Rolston played 68 games with Rockford before getting picked up by the Admirals. Rolston has tacked 15 points in his first 30 games, including points in his past three games.

Change is a constant in the world of professional hockey, where players often find themselves adjusting to new environments. For many, it’s an opportunity to grow both on and off the ice, embracing the challenges that come with it. Rolston reflected on this mindset, sharing how he stays grounded through change.

“Just being able to enjoy that I’m here” Rolston said. “Not a lot of people can say that they play in this league or played in this league. And when things get hard, I just remind myself of that.”

Becoming accustomed to change allows less room for doubt and far more for success for any athlete. For Rolston, success isn’t solely defined by on-ice performance but by his ability to make meaningful connections and find his place within each new team.

“I think [success] is being able to come into a dressing room, you know, create a role for yourself, build relationships, build networks, and just be able to learn from the people around you.” Rolston said.

All in all, Rolston’s presence on the Admirals has not gone unnoticed. Despite this, he has clear, defined goals in order to solidify his longevity in the sport he has adored since a young age.

“I just want to stick to the path and do my best every single day. coming here, working hard and, keeping things simple in that form” Rolson said. “Because I think if you put too much pressure on yourself, it’s never healthy.”