Emerson, New Jersey. A small town that was Noelle De Magistris’s whole world until she decided to start exploring outside of its walls. 

Her family grew up here. She grew up here. But after sophomore year of high school, De Magistris was ready for more opportunities and could not wait to take her talent to the next level. There is no doubt that she misses the unmatched energy of being a Cavo, but Noelle wanted to push herself out of her comfort zone.

Taking her hockey stick, Junior Defenseman De Magistris skated her way toward Brewster Academy. The boarding school, located in New Hampshire, is home to multiple sports such as crew, soccer, cross country, baseball, softball, and, of course, women’s hockey. 

Despite being in a totally unknown atmosphere, she battled her fears of homesickness, being a new kid, and living in a different area so that she could open up more doors for herself.

Why did you transition from Emerson to Brewster Academy in New Hampshire?

I attended a hockey camp where I was recruited by my now hockey coach. She described what Brewster could be for me. Academically, Brewster would challenge me on a level that allowed me to understand the information and thrive, but still required me to put in work. On the athletic side, Brewster had high school hockey, which is something I have always wanted to be a part of.

How was the transition?

The students, teachers, and faculty were all extremely welcoming and ensured that they were here to help me succeed. I made new friends, did well in my first trimester, and picked up a new sport which helped me get to know more people. 

How did you get into playing hockey?

When my father went to school, he played street hockey with his friends almost everyday. I started playing with his equipment so much that my parents signed me up for skating lessons. Initially, these lessons were for figure skating and I took them with my friends. It was safe to say that I was not a fan. Every lesson I would play hockey on the other side of the ice with the boy of the group. The instructor told my parents that I was not cut out for figure skating and that I was most definitely a hockey player. So, I was signed up for hockey and took to it quickly.

Why do you continue to play hockey?

I loved it when I was four and I love it even more now. The competition, physicality, team chemistry, traveling, and all of the other components of the game had a hold on me and still do. Without this amazing sport, I wouldn’t have met my best friends, traveled up and down the East Coast like it was my job, been a part of the most tight knit community I have ever seen, or been given the chance to play at my wonderful school.

What new opportunities does going to school in New Hampshire hold?

Brewster gives me the opportunity to have more recognition than on my previous club team for college opportunities. The further you travel up North, the more competitive the hockey gets. By playing in New Hampshire, I get to play in the most competitive high school hockey league in America. Overall, it is preparing me for college life because, by living on my own, balancing school, sports, and other activities, I am able to learn how to make an effective schedule and hold myself accountable. 

What is one piece of advice you would leave for students who are moving forward with their education, career, or life in general?

My advice would be to go for it. Don’t let something pass you by. You never know when an opportunity will present itself. Be humble, honest, and kind. These traits helped me get recognized at a hockey camp that led me to be recruited by this school. Always be true to yourself, do your own thing, and write your own story.