"Please remember to always be positive and always help others." - Ashlynn Tourville
Cedar Creek Elementary School student Ashlynn Tourville was named a finalist in the 2025–26 Minnesota Hockey Essay Contest. Check this video of Ashlynn reflecting on her winning essay and watch the end of the video to see her submission.
The Minnesota Hockey Essay Contest, presented by 1919 Root Beer, is an annual tradition that encourages players to express their thoughts on what makes youth hockey a positive environment.
This year’s essay topic, "A time I lifted someone up in hockey…” brought in incredible submissions from players across the state, and Ashlynn’s story truly stood out.
While sidelined with a knee injury, Ashlynn showed amazing leadership by lifting up a discouraged teammate from the bench. Her encouragement helped spark confidence—and the team went on to win the game.
Way to go Ashlynn!