As a hockey goalie, R.J. Heath is used to blocking shots.
Now, he’s taking one.
Heath, a 16-year-old Ortonville resident, was invited to play with the Junior A Minnesota Blizzards hockey team in Alexandria, Minn.
Junior A is a tiered system within the North American Hockey League for 16-20-year-olds that is heavily scouted by colleges and professional teams.
‘It was an ‘invitation only? tryout, so to be invited was a big deal,? said Patti Heath, R.J.’s mother. ‘Plus, he was the youngest player there. He had 20-year-olds shooting on him.?
R.J. held his ground throughout the three day tryouts, from July 23-25. In a series of 12 penalty shots, Heath let only two past him.
‘The coaches were very happy,? said Patti. ‘They told us they have big plans for R.J.?
The accomplishment does not come without sacrifice. R.J. will have to relocate to Alexandria, Minn., leaving behind his friends and familiy.
‘Truthfully, I’m not excited to move. I’ve lived here my whole life,? said R.J. ‘I have to take my opportunities, though.?
Living in Minnesota with a host family and a new high school, R.J. will rely on technology to stay close to his family.
‘I already bought a web cam for our computers and I’m going to say goodbye to him every morning before he goes to school,? said Patti with a laugh.
Despite the significant life-changes, both R.J. and his family are grateful and excited for his big break.
‘This is what he’s been working for,? said Patti. ‘He has to follow his dreams.?