When William Whitelaw first stepped onto the ice, his mind was already navigating a different kind of communication. Growing up with a deaf grandfather, he chose to learn American Sign Language, a decision that would shape both his personal life and his approach to the game.
His commitment to the language led him to Shattuck St. Mary's, where he spent four years immersed in ASL studies. During that time he also interned at the Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf, gaining hands‑on experience that deepened his connection to the deaf community.
On the rink, Whitelaw models his play after two of the sport’s most dynamic forwards, Cole Caufield and Brad Marchand. He admires their relentless speed, sharp shooting and ability to create space, traits he strives to emulate in his own performance.
College has taken him from the University of Michigan to the University of Wisconsin and finally to Western Michigan, where he now wears the Broncos’ colors. Across those programs he has worked to become a more complete player, balancing offensive flair with defensive responsibility.
His ultimate ambition is clear: to lead Western Michigan to a National Championship. The pursuit of that title is not just a personal milestone but a tribute to the community that supported his journey from the classroom to the arena.
Chasing a Championship
Beyond the scoreboard, Whitelaw sees his story as a bridge between worlds — using the discipline of sign language to foster understanding and using the platform of hockey to inspire teammates and fans alike. As he looks ahead, the next chapter promises to be as much about personal growth as it is about collective success.