Olympic gold medalist Taylor Heise returned to the ice this summer not to compete, but to mentor. At Ridder Arena, she opened the doors to her second annual TH27 camp, a program designed to sharpen hockey skills while fostering confidence among young girls who dream of wearing a USA jersey one day.
Rooted in Personal Experience
Heise shaped the camp around the memories of her own childhood, when limited opportunities shaped her perspective on the sport. By drawing on those formative moments, she crafted a space where campers could feel seen and supported, a stark contrast to the scarcity she once faced.
Collaboration with her mother added a familial touch, ensuring that every detail — from the schedule to the atmosphere — prioritized a positive experience. Shorter, focused sessions kept the energy high, and the final day culminated in a scrimmage that let participants apply what they had learned in a game‑like setting.
Beyond the Rink
Heise emphasized that hockey is something you do, not something you are. She urged the campers to pursue balance, to explore interests outside the rink, and to recognize that a well‑rounded life fuels athletic performance. Her message resonated with many who see sport as one chapter of a larger story.
The camp also highlighted the responsibility that comes with visibility. As one of the sport’s most recognizable players, Heise feels the weight of pushing the game forward, knowing that small gestures — posing for photos, signing autographs — can leave lasting impressions on aspiring athletes.
Organizers partnered with local institutions, including the Minnesota Gophers and Minnesota Frost, to underscore the camp’s connection to the broader hockey community. The event took place in the United States, specifically in Minnesota, at the iconic Ridder Arena, a venue that continues to serve as a hub for women’s hockey development.