Stars of the Game: Nolan Sullivan
9/2/2020
Sophomore | Forward | Eden Prairie, Minn.
Sophomore Nolan Sullivan had an immediate impact on the Omaha hockey team during his freshman year. One of 11 rookies on the 2019-20 team, Sullivan became a steady presence at center as the year wore on, finishing with seven goals and 10 assists for 17 points. That put him third among his classmates and fifth among all NCHC freshmen.
The native of Eden Prairie, Minn. missed the first three games of last season with an injury, finally making his debut at Ohio State on Oct. 19. A couple of weeks later, Sullivan picked up his first collegiate goal against Wisconsin. Although it came in a loss, the goal was just the start of his point production and the next night, he had two assists in a 5-2 win over the Badgers.
Sullivan will be served well by a strong determination to improve his game and a year of experience in the NCHC when his sophomore season begins.
It’s very impressive to watch Nolan show up every day with a consistent work ethic and to take the initiative to get better. So I’m not surprised that he had such a successful freshman season when you reflect on his daily habits.Head coach Mike Gabinet
THREE QUESTIONS FOR NOLAN SULLIVAN
What does it mean to you to be a Maverick student-athlete?
You get to be a part of something bigger than yourself. When you work hard, it’s not just for personal gain but also for the betterment of our school and community. Our goal is to be a Division I national championship program, and we know there are a lot of pieces to the puzzle that go into achieving that goal.
How have you developed as a player since coming to Omaha?
I’ve grown in my compassion to pull for other guys even when things aren’t going my way. On the ice, I have been able to advance my offensive skills and continue to improve on enhancing my play on special teams.
How has your experience as a student-athlete changed you as a person?
I’ve learned how to prioritize what is important. It is very easy to get caught up in the business of the schedule. I have learned the importance of finding rest and restoration away from the rink while managing to stay all caught up with my school work.
