At just 15 years old, Jason Iglesias, a Cuban-American, is emerging as one of the most promising talents in the world of ice hockey in the United States. His journey began when he was merely six years old, after attending a Florida Panthers game with his father. Captivated by the sport, he never looked back.
Iglesias started his athletic training with the Miami Toros in Kendall before moving on to the Palm Beach Breakers. His exceptional skill led him to join the Florida Alliance AAA, where he achieved both state and district championships and also competed in national tournaments. "Yes, we won the state title and then the Southeast district. Yes, yes, and we went to nationals, but couldn't win there. But that's life," he reminisced in an interview with Telemundo 51.
His impressive abilities also earned him a spot representing Cuba in the AMERIGOL Latam Cup, an international tournament held in Florida, supported by the NHL and the Panthers. Despite his young age, he competed in Division 2, thanks to his outstanding performance. "It was a lot of fun," he admitted.
The teenager, who plays as a forward, is an avid fan of the Florida Panthers. "I love hockey. Whenever I can catch a game, I turn on the TV and watch. But yes, my favorite team is the Florida Panthers, and I follow them closely. When they won, it brought me great joy," he expressed.
Jason also acknowledges the significance of the team's accomplishments in boosting ice hockey's presence in South Florida, a region where the sport is still gaining traction. His next career move involves relocating to a school in New York, where he will have the opportunity to balance his education with intensive hockey training. "It's perfect for me, I think, because I have school there, and I can go straight from classes to the rink and play hockey whenever I want," he shared excitedly.
His dream is crystal clear: to become an NHL player one day. "Right now, I'm aiming to play juniors after a few years. Hopefully, from there, I can go to college and play hockey," he stated. Finally, he offered advice to those looking to make their mark in hockey. "Parental support is very, very important. I wouldn't be here today without them. If I have to say something, it's to keep working every day; you can't just sit at home doing nothing. Every day, you have to go out and do your best," he advised.
With discipline, talent, and a future brimming with opportunities, Jason Iglesias stands out as a name that could elevate Cuban-American ice hockey to new heights.
Jason Iglesias and the Future of Ice Hockey
What inspired Jason Iglesias to start playing ice hockey?
Jason Iglesias was inspired to start playing ice hockey after his father took him to a Florida Panthers game when he was six years old, sparking his lifelong passion for the sport.
What are Jason Iglesias's future goals in ice hockey?
Jason Iglesias dreams of becoming an NHL player. His immediate goal is to play juniors and eventually attend college, where he hopes to continue playing hockey at a competitive level.
How does Jason Iglesias plan to balance his education and hockey training?
Jason Iglesias plans to move to a school in New York that offers him the opportunity to combine his studies with intensive hockey practice, allowing him to train directly after classes.