Today’s Notable Young Professional is pro hockey player Brandon Reid, a Montreal native currently playing his first season in the KHL for CSKA Moscow. His professional career started when he began playing junior hockey at 16, and was then drafted into the NHL at 19…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I’m a professional hockey player. Currently I play in the KHL for CSKA in Moscow, Russia.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
Since I was two years old I had a really hard time putting down a hockey stick. I decided to go pro because it’s all I ever wanted to do, and at the age of 16 the opportunity was there to start making this dream come true. Who wouldn’t want to play for a living?
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is getting to lace up the skates every day knowing that I’m actually getting paid to do something I love so much. The most challenging parts are dealing with constant strain on my body, being away from friends and family, and never really being able to live on my own schedule.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
When my work/life balance is off it’s pretty obvious, I stop succeeding.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I’d love to still be playing hockey, perhaps in a country/league I haven’t yet experienced. Otherwise I’d just love a chance to live back home in Canada for a time and to give back and work with minor league teams in my community.
What is one major challenge you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Trying to regain confidence after a tough few seasons and after dealing with difficult leadership, that was a serious challenge. I overcame it by working hard on myself during the offseason, on and off the ice; from working out harder in the gym, to working with a sports psychologist, to continuing to remind myself how I got to where I am and of my past achievements.
What does success look like to you?
Success to me is working hard and reaping the benefits. Those benefits, for me, are travelling the world, playing in beautiful places, learning new cultures, and winning.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Playing my first NHL game in my hometown of Montreal.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
If you want to become one of the best at something, don’t pick 10 paths; pick one, get focused, and go for it.
Where is your favourite place to wine and dine in your city and why?
When I’m back home in Montreal I always head to The Keg, Place Ville Marie. They have great staff, great food, and they make the best Caesar, which is something I miss a lot when I’m overseas.
When you are not working how do you love to spend “Me” time?
I’m a hockey player so downtime is always naptime.
Where is your favourite place to travel and why?
I love travelling home to Canada to see family and friends during the offseason.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
I don’t know about a theme song but before every game I love to pump up the confidence with “This is Why I’m Hot” by MIMS.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
I’ve only ever wanted to play hockey, and it’s the only job I’ve ever had.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I support the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). I’m an animal lover, and from playing all over the world I’ve seen their needs on a global scale.
What to you is notable?
Having that perfect and necessary balance of confidence and humility.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.
