When it comes to the game of hockey, some athletes are gifted with a rare talent, whether it be speed, strength, IQ, or players like Anthony Rizzi, a natural goalscorer. Rizzi, 17, is a member of the Fort McMurray U18 AA Junior Oilbarons as a left-winger who is always hungry for putting the puck in the back of the net. He has played hockey for about 12 years now, where he’s been center and left-wing at the peewee level, which has helped him understand the ins and outs of the game.

Rizzi laces up his skates at least five times a week to improve his game as he learns new things about the game he loves every day. He also typically gets in a workout before hitting the ice, proving to be fully dedicated. He’s also been a traveler, as he played in Dauphin, Manitoba, last year on a midget AAA team. For Rizzi, the sport isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. He takes great pride in his craft and wants to be a better hockey player every chance he gets.

Pittsburgh Penguins all-star Sidney Crosby is a point machine, and it’s someone Rizzi tries to model his game after. Crosby’s work ethic and leadership are a great example of a role model, and for anyone to follow in his footsteps is remarkable. Rizzi feels that he’s someone his team can rely on to make a big play or pick the team up when they’re down and remind them they’re always in the game and it’s never over.

At 6’3’, some would say Rizzi would be a big hitter, but his strength is his incredible shot. Whether it’s a wrist or slap shot, the goalie better have his head on a swivel because he shows no remorse. Anything to get the dirty goal out in front of the crease, or a dependable powerplay machine, Rizzi is someone you want on your team.

He’s decided to follow his dream and play junior hockey next year as he’ll look to make himself a well-known name in the future.