Weidner_Stars_WIH

The NHL is celebrating women in hockey, and every week through April, NHL.com will highlight a woman from each of the 32 teams. Today, a look at Dallas Stars assistant director of youth hockey development Allysen Weidner:

Name: Allysen Weidner
Job title: Assistant director of youth hockey development
Education: Bachelors in Business Management and Psychology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute,; Masters Degree in Organizational Leadership, Mercyhurst University
Years of hockey experience: 18years (playing), 12 years (coaching/profession)
Describe your job in 2-3 sentences: To develop and create opportunities for young hockey players in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. More specifically young females. Providing unique opportunities for young females and grow the female youth hockey population in Dallas.
What motivates you to keep pushing and be successful?
My daughter. I want to create an inclusive environment for all young female hockey players where they feel they deserve to play and have a place to play. No matter the skill level they will always have a place on the ice. Growing up in Kansas where there was no girls hockey, I played with the boys. In Texas, girls hockey is definitely growing at a rapid pace and I want to make sure all girls have an option to play with other girls if they wish.
What sports did you play, and enjoy most or least, growing up?
I played hockey, softball and basketball. Basketball was NOT my thing. Loved softball and hockey but stopped playing softball once I went to prep school in high school.
Do you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert, and how does it impact your work?
Introvert. I am a shy person most days. However, the rink and on ice has always been my 'safe place.' Hockey has always forced me out of my shell and challenged me to speak up and use my voice.
Are you a morning person or night owl?
Morning person
What's your favorite book?
"Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell
What's your favorite movie or TV show?
"Friends"
What is your most-used emoji?
Grinning Face
Do you have any hidden talents (if yes, what)?
I can make a delicious chicken pot pie from scratch!