Letter: A hidden blessing
My name is Juan Carlos Sandoval. I was born in Vail, and grew up with Spanish as my first language. Reflecting on my childhood, I’d like to share an experience from my time on the Vail PeeWee Hockey team that shaped me in unexpected ways.
As a kid, I struggled to understand my coach’s instructions. He spoke English quickly, and to me, it sounded like he was mumbling or gargling water. Frustrated by my inability to follow directions, the coach often benched me or made me skate laps around the rink for the entire practice. At the time, I felt discouraged and excluded.
However, as I look back on those moments now, I’ve found gratitude. Those laps taught me discipline, balance, and perseverance. My skating skills later became an asset when I joined the Buddy Werner Ski Racing Team, where I found my confidence and passion on the slopes.
This experience taught me that sometimes, what feels like a setback can be a hidden blessing. My coach’s methods may not have been ideal, but they inadvertently prepared me for challenges and opportunities later in life.
To young athletes and their parents, I’d like to share this: even in moments of struggle or misunderstanding, there is room for growth. What may seem like a failure or frustration can lead to unexpected achievements.

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Thank you for allowing me to share this reflection.
Juan Carlos Sandoval
Gypsum
