Mason West, Edina's Dual-Sport Talent, Commits to Hockey

Mason West, a promising young athlete from Edina, Minnesota, has made a significant decision regarding his sports career. At just 17 years old, he was selected 29th overall in the NHL Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks.

"It was a kind of a blackout situation for me," West reflected on the moment he received the news. "I don't really know. It was a surreal moment."

For West, this selection represents more than just a career milestone; it’s a connection to his roots. "My dad is from Chicago," he explained. "He brought the Blackhawks era into our household along with the Bulls and Cubs. It's kinda cool. I have family down in Chicago. So it's all kinda worked out."

Last season, West and the Edina Hornets had a commendable run but fell short in the state semifinals. "It was tough because I want to win," he admitted. "So if we don't win the state championship, I don't look at it as a failure, but I look at it as something they can do next year."

As he prepares for his future in hockey, West will not be playing high school hockey during his senior year. Instead, he plans to join a junior team in Fargo. However, he remains committed to football, taking on the role of quarterback for one last season. "Done that in hockey but not in football," he stated. "So I want to achieve my goals and stay loyal to my teammates. I think they really need me in order to win. So I'll be there for them."

Despite having the option to play Division I football, West opted for hockey and has committed to Michigan State University. This decision came after careful consideration last fall. "After the Fargo season ended, obviously, that experience and that game style. I just really thought I could make an impact at the next upcoming levels," he said. "I think I develop fast and work really hard. So, right as I knew I could keep developing in that time span, I just decided to pursue hockey. It's what I love to do."

With aspirations set high and a clear path ahead, Mason West is poised to make his mark in the world of hockey while still cherishing his time on the football field.