One of only two players in University of Minnesota Duluth women's hockey history to have worn a letter on her jersey for three seasons, Bulldog senior captain Saara Tuominen is still UMD's top-dog as her final collegiate hockey season begins. A native of Ylojarvi, Finland, the forward, who is balancing Team Finland Olympic duties with Maroon and Gold responsiblites this season, Tuominen represents a senior class that has reached the NCAA Frozen Four every year she has worn the Bulldog. Ranked the ninth all-time career scorer in UMD history with 116 points (38 goals, 78 assists) in just 108 games, Tuominen and the rest of the Bulldogs will open Western Collegiate Hockey Association action this weekend when they host St. Cloud State at the DECC Saturday and Sunday.
Her Favorites
Opponent: Wisconsin
Road Trip: Madison, Wisconsin
Opponent Arena: Ridder Arena, Minneapolis
Professional Athlete: Sidney Crosby
Professional Team: Pittsburg Penguins
College Course: Health & Wellness
Movie: The Lion King
Television Show: Grey's Anatomy
Book: Twilight
Pastimes: Watching movies, relaxing
Singer/Group: Brandi Carlile
Food: Sushi
Restaurant: Beijing
Vacation Spot: Sydney, Australia
Website: www.facebook.com
Personally Speaking
Why I Chose UMD: Tradition of Excellence
Biggest Fear: World War 3
Pet Peeve: Getting lost
Game Day Ritual: Listening music, getting fresh air, a good nap!
Hockey Strength/Weakness: Seeing the ice/explosiveness
Most Memorable Moment Hockey Moment: Winning the Frozen Four in Duluth 2008, and winning a bronze medal in Women's World Championships in Finland in 2009.
First Played Competitive Hockey: At the age of 5
My First Job: Picking strawberries
What Most People Don't Know About Me: I can speak 4 languages
Who You'd Like to be Stranded on a Deserted Island With: My team
Person I'd Most Like to Meet: Barack Obama
Advice to an Aspiring Young Hockey Player: Learn how to skate at early age, play with the puck a lot, and have FUN with it!
Influences on My Athletic Career: Family and friends
Sport I'd Like to Try But Never Have: Polo
Something I Never Leave Home Without: My Iphone
Post-UMD Plans: Continue playing hockey, get a master degree.
