Mentoring the Next Generation: A Look at #95

 February, 2025

A Wildcat Player Who Inspires Both On and Off the Ice

In the fast-paced world of hockey, where competition is fierce and the pressure to perform is always high, some players manage to stand out not just for their skill on the ice, but for the positive impact they have off it. One such player is a standout member of the team who wears Jersey #95 - Marra Klassen. Known for her resilience, drive, and encouraging spirit, she has become a key figure not only on her team but also in the broader hockey community as a mentor to younger players.

For this Wildcat player, her love for the game began at home, thanks to her older brother. "My older brother has always been my biggest inspiration," she says. "His passion and dedication inspired my love for the game, and he continues to be someone I look up to on and off the ice." 

The Wildcat Way: A Culture of Support

When asked what it means to be a Wildcat, her answer reflects the culture of the team and the community it fosters. "Being a Wildcat means being a part of a supportive community where everyone pushes you to be the best person you can be on and off the ice." This ethos of mutual support and commitment to growth is a central part of her role as a mentor.

The Wildcat team environment encourages both individual and collective success, and she embodies this philosophy through her leadership. As a mentor, she not only shows younger players the ropes but also instills in them the confidence to believe in themselves and strive for excellence.

Giving Back: The Importance of Mentorship

For Marra, mentorship is a way to give back to the sport that has shaped her life. "I mentor because I want to give back to the sport that has given me so much," she explains. "I hope to inspire younger girls to chase their goals." Her commitment to the next generation goes beyond simple coaching; it's about nurturing a passion for the game and encouraging these young players to push past obstacles, much like she did when she was starting out.

Her mentorship is grounded in the idea that hockey is more than just wins and losses. It's about creating memories, building relationships, and fostering personal growth. "All of the bus trips as a team" stand out as one of her favorite memories. These moments of camaraderie and team bonding reflect the deeper values that hockey can instill in its players—values she works hard to pass on to the younger generation.

Learning from Younger Players

In return, mentoring younger players has taught her just as much as it has taught them. "I have learned the importance of always playing for the love of the game," she says. Younger players, with their unbridled enthusiasm and raw passion, remind her of the core reasons she fell in love with hockey in the first place. Their excitement and joy for the sport reignite her own passion and remind her of the value of playing with heart.

Resilient, Driven, and Encouraging: A Role Model for All

Marra's impact as a mentor is a reflection of her personal qualities—resilient, driven, and encouraging. These three words, chosen by the player herself, perfectly capture the essence of her character. She is resilient in the face of challenges, always bouncing back from setbacks with determination and grit. She is driven to succeed, pushing herself and those around her to achieve greatness. And perhaps most importantly, she is encouraging, always lifting up those who may doubt themselves and reminding them of their potential.

Through her dedication to mentoring and her commitment to both personal and team success, she exemplifies what it means to be a Wildcat—and what it means to be a true leader in the world of sports. As she continues to inspire and guide the next generation of female hockey players, there's no doubt that her influence will continue to be felt far beyond the ice.