Some of Jayden Weiner's earliest memories are of playing ball hockey with mini sticks around the house. After learning to skate at age five, the Orange Lutheran senior started playing on a team and continued developing his passion for the game.
The speed and physicality of hockey are what Weiner enjoys most about the sport.
"I like that it's fast-paced," says Weiner. "There's some physical contact, so it's bit of an aggression sport. It's always treated me well, so I've always wanted to continue playing."
As a defenseman for the Lancers, Weiner enjoys the responsibility of defending his team's zone and supporting his goaltender. He models his style of play after NHL defensemen Olen Zellweger of the Buffalo Sabres and Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins.
In his role as captain of this year's D1 varsity squad, Weiner sets the standard for his teammates through his play, work ethic and leadership on and off the ice.
"Jayden is a great example of leadership, competitiveness and respect for the game," says OLu hockey head coach August Aiken. "His integrity and values he brings to our program are the foundation that leads to our success. He cares about everyone in our program and leads by example."
Having played club hockey for several years, Weiner appreciates the opportunity to represent his high school on the ice. One of his favorite memories as a Lancer came during his freshman year, when OLu advanced to the California state championship game. Although the team fell short of the title, he hopes to help OLu return to the championship in his senior season.
"It was the first time where I was playing, and I realized, this is actually crazy," says Weiner of that title game. "All the stands were packed, and it was probably one of the most fun and competitive memories I remember from hockey."
The lessons Weiner has gained through hockey extend beyond the sport, shaping how he approaches challenges and works with others.
"One of the biggest life lessons that keeps coming up is no matter what, you've got to just persevere," says the four-year varsity player. "You've got to be the last man standing, because not everyone's willing to do that… And then one of the other things is leadership and how you work with people. You've got to understand people and their aspects to achieve a bigger goal than just the person itself. Those are probably two of the biggest things I've taken away from hockey."
Weiner also values the role faith plays in his experience as a student athlete and OLu's emphasis on incorporating faith into its athletic programs.
"God's at the base of it all," says the 18-year old. "You're playing the sport and you're being competitive, but that's not everything in this world. One of the best things about hockey is after the end of the game, after all the physicality, all the fights, we end in the middle of the ice and pray. It just shows you that there's a lot of good in this world."
Following graduation, Weiner hopes to compete in junior hockey before advancing to play at the collegiate level. Beyond the ice, he is considering a career in business or engineering. He is grateful for the support and guidance his parents have provided throughout all aspects of his life.
"It's such a simple answer, but it's my mom and dad," says Weiner on who inspires him. "They raised me from the very beginning, taught me everything I know and led by example. I'm thankful for everything they've done for me."
