Elite Hockey Academy is proud to highlight alumnus Michael Roby, who continues to make his mark at the collegiate level. After developing his skills and growing as a player at EHA, Michael transitioned successfully through juniors and into college hockey. Through 15 games this season, he is leading Chatham College in goals (14) and tied for first on the team in points (24), playing a pivotal role in the program’s success.
To give our community an inside look at his journey, mindset, and development, we asked Michael to reflect on his time at EHA and his experience as a student-athlete at the next level.
Full Interview with Michael Roby
Experience at Elite Hockey Academy
Q: Can you describe your experience at the Elite Hockey Academy? What were some of the key takeaways that stood out to you?
A: I had an unbelievable experience at the Elite Hockey Academy. EHA helped me grow both as a person and as a player. Having multiple ice sessions a day along with workouts allowed me to develop at a faster rate. One of the biggest takeaways for me was how tight-knit the program really is. Everyone involved – from billets and coaches to younger teams and people in the community – made my experience unforgettable.
Q: How did the training and environment at the Academy prepare you for the next steps in your hockey career?
A: The training at the Academy really helped improve my skills and my confidence. Having access to the right tools and coaches made it possible to get better every single day and prepared me to play at the next level.
Transition to Junior and College Hockey
Q: What was the transition like moving from the 18U Elite Hockey Academy to juniors and then college hockey?
A: My transition was very smooth. When I got to juniors, I already felt prepared because of my time at EHA. We did film and systems work that made it feel like I was already part of a junior environment. Going into college a year early from juniors felt like the right decision for me, and I credit Elite for preparing me with that junior-style structure.
Q: Were there any challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
A: The biggest challenge is just being consistent every day – at practice, in workouts, and off the ice. I was scratched a few times in juniors and during my freshman year, but that’s part of the process. Learning how to bounce back and stay consistent is really important as you move up levels.
Current Success at Chatham College
Q: Congratulations on being first on your team in points! What has contributed to your success this season?
A: I think a big part of it has been embracing my role on the team. Being a junior now, I want to do whatever it takes to help us win. Personally, being more consistent in my daily habits has helped me find success on the ice.
Balancing Life as a Student-Athlete
Q: How do you manage the balance between academics and athletics at Chatham?
A: School and hockey balance each other really well. Having a routine in college helps you stay on top of everything and manage your time effectively.
Q: What strategies have helped you succeed both in the classroom and on the ice?
A: In the classroom, studying and asking professors for help has made a big difference. Professors understand how busy student-athletes are and want to help you succeed. On the ice, video has helped me find better spots and understand the game at a higher level.
Future Aspirations
Q: What are your goals moving forward at Chatham College and beyond?
A: My goal is to continue having fun playing at a high, competitive level. Alumni always tell us to soak in every day because there’s nothing like college hockey. I want to win a UCHC championship during my time at Chatham and help the program make its first NCAA tournament appearance.
Q: Do you have aspirations to play professionally after college?
A: If the opportunity to play professionally in Europe came up, I would definitely pursue it. Traveling the world is a goal of mine, and playing hockey in another country would be an incredible experience.
Advice for Current Elite Hockey Academy Players
Q: What advice would you give to current EHA students who want to play college hockey?
A: Enjoy the process and don’t rush it. Everything works out when you focus on the present and prepare yourself daily for the next step.
Q: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently at the Academy?
A: Honestly, I don’t think there’s much I would change. I had an unbelievable experience. If anything, I would say being more locked in every day – both in the classroom and on the ice. At higher levels, you can’t go through the motions without it showing.
Closing Thoughts
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add about your time at Elite Hockey Academy?
A: My time at Elite Hockey Academy was truly special and something my family and I will never forget. Peter Alden showed me what it means to be part of something bigger than just hockey. He taught me how to carry myself with integrity, treat others with respect, and be a good person on and off the ice. I built friendships that will last a lifetime and grew immensely during my two years at EHA. I will forever be thankful for everything Elite Hockey Academy gave me.