Linus Hemström can personally attest to the positive impact of making a significant change.
Through determination and support, his aspirations are becoming a reality with the Kingston Frontenacs.
However, in order to pursue his ambition, he had to leave Brynäs IF, a renowned Swedish development program where he had honed his skills at various levels during his youth, and relocate to Canada.
Despite the difficulty of this decision, Hemström believes it was a beneficial step towards realizing his ultimate goals and desires in athletics and life.
"I wanted a change from my team back home in Sweden, and this was one of the opportunities. I'm glad that I took it," he said. "I've met so many good people in the organization. It's been a great experience."
Although he cherishes all the relationships he has developed in Kingston, he shares a special bond with his head coach, Troy Mann. Linus credits his mentorship with helping him to increase the pace of his development.
"He has been good to me. He is a great person. I am glad he trusts my game. I just try to go out there and do my best for the team every night. I think he likes that," Hemström explained. "If you have a professional coach like that, and he knows what it takes, you get a little more dialled in yourself."
Since his selection in the second round of the 2022 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft, the hardworking right-shot forward has appeared in 115 games with the franchise, scoring 28 goals and recording 81 points.
Hemström has adapted well to his new environment, much to the delight of the organization.
"He has been a really good player for us. He has a great work ethic and a lot of versatility in his game," Mann said. "He is one of those guys that everyone wants to play with, which is certainly a compliment to him."
As he develops his career in North America, Hemström continues to enjoy great support from his hometown. He also still holds Gävle in high regard. During the offseason, Linus has had the privilege of training with some of the top professionals in his community.
"It's a big hockey town; there are a lot of good players from here. I skated with most of them this summer," Hemström recalled. "I saw what they are like on a daily basis and how hard they work every day. It's pretty cool. You get the opportunity to be unbiased with those kinds of guys. You see what you need to bring to the next level."
Of all the talented individuals he has encountered, Hemström confides that Nicklas Bäckström, an Olympian and Stanley Cup Champion, has been the most influential.
"I've always looked up to him. The first time I ever stepped on the ice with him. It was a special feeling; even though it was just a practice, it felt unreal," Hemström said. "I started talking to him. He is a great person and has given me some advice."
Although not afraid to step out on his own, Hemström will never forget where he comes from.
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