Playing for Baldwin’s ice hockey throughout his high school career, senior Nate Buys has learned to love some of its unique history.

“I love the culture that we have and all the traditions that have been around for years,” Buys said. “We always do Secret Santa, wear suits on game days, and dye our hair blonde if we make playoffs.”

But now, in his final year playing for Baldwin, he can’t help but imagine what life without hockey will be like.

“I stay motivated by thinking about life without hockey. I am done with hockey after this season, and I know I will miss it. So I’m trying to make my last year the best it can be,” Buys said.

For Buys, hockey has been a family tradition.

“I started playing hockey because my older brothers played and I stuck with it because of how much I improved each year,” Buys said. 

Buys is a left winger and he has played for nearly five years, starting in seventh grade. His improvement every year and commitment have helped him become a captain on the varsity team. This year he has three goals and seven assists.

Along with his brothers, his teammates have also helped him stick with the sport.

“My favorite memories are when the boys are all sitting around in the locker room after a game or practice just talking and chilling,” Buys said. 

Senior Mack Dempsey had known Buys for many years, even before they started playing together.

“I have known Nate since preschool,” Dempsey said, adding that they have been playing hockey together for years. Dempsey applauded Buys on his perseverance and strong mental attitude he has had throughout every year.

“He has always played with intensity and grit,” Dempsey said.

Sophomore Austin Klein met Buys only a year ago. He said Buys quickly made him feel welcome.

“Last year, when I was a freshman coming onto the varsity team, he immediately made me feel comfortable. Even as an underclassman, it was easy to talk to him, and he was always supportive,” Klein said. “He naturally stepped into a leadership role, brought high energy every day, and consistently expected the best from everyone.”

The teammates all share fond memories of one another.

“All throughout middle school and high school, he has been a great friend and teammate,” Dempsey said.

Buys also brings leadership and competitiveness to the team, he said.

“His energy can bring up the team in a slump,” Dempsey said. “He wins puck puck battles and forechecks hard.”

Klein said Buys is the one who sets the tone on the ice.

“He plays physical, forechecks hard, and brings consistent intensity. He leads by example and does the little things right, which is exactly what you want from a leader,” Klein said.

Klein adds that even outside of hockey, Buys continues to be a role model.

“Outside of hockey, the most admirable thing about Nate is his work ethic and how he carries himself. He is passionate, positive, and always kind to others. He treats everyone with respect and creates a supportive environment around the team,” Klein said.

Overall, Buys is a team player and sets his team up for success.

“He helps us set up plays and score goals. I think he will continue to play physically,” Dempsey said.

The team has had a successful season so far.

“We are in contention for playoffs right now and have had a really fun season, which is all I could’ve asked for,” Buys said.