BERKLEY, Mich. – Tory Shand didn’t play hockey last year, opting instead to keep off the ice to work and go to school.

During the 2012-13 season, Shand skated for the USA Eagles Midget Major squad and this season, will be back in a competitive atmosphere with the Berkley Bruins of the Midwest Junior Hockey League.

Shand, a 20-year-old native of Highland, Mich., wound up with the Bruins after some friendly advice from a soon-to-be Berkley teammate.

“My good friend, Alex Anderson, informed me that he was playing for the Bruins and that the team was looking for a couple players that could benefit the team in certain ways,” said Shand. “I came out to a few of the skates and liked the environment and the respect that the players had for the game.”

Berkley head coach Dan Pszenyczny sees Shand and veteran forward Tim Muhsman forming an offensive threat this season for the Bruins.

“Tory has a great work ethic and he shows up to the rink ready to work and learn,” Pszenyczny said. “He's got speed, a great shot, sees the ice very well, is smart with the puck and is a great team player on and off the ice. Tory is a player that will be used in every situation.”

With the Eagles, Shand said head coach Troy Barron prepared him for higher levels of hockey and Shand actually planned on playing for Oakland University this season, but a paperwork snafu put that on hold.

Moving forward, Shand is excited to get the season underway with Berkley.

“What I like most is that this team is young and has potential to grow into something that can be a potential threat for years to come,” said Shand. “The coach is well-prepared and has the mindset that we are here to win - one game at a time and one practice at a time.”

And being able to stay home to play a high level of junior hockey was also key to Shand making the decision to choose Berkley and the MWJHL.

“It allows myself to be close to family and gives me a chance to save some money, as this sport can be quite expensive,” explained Shand. “It also allows me to go to school and follow an academic learning as well as a better understanding for the game of hockey on a different level.”

When addressing what will make the upcoming season a success, Shand displayed a mature character, choosing to talk about the team’s goals rather than individual stats and numbers.

“What will make this season a success for me on a personal level will be to play to my best potential and come to every game with a mindset that were going to walk away with ‘W,’” said Shand. “If I can do my part and play the role I'm supposed to play, then I will be a huge contributor in the upcoming season. In saying that, for team success we need strong leadership and a level of commitment from every player. It's key to play as a team in order to get the results we want to see.”

The Bruins start their second MWJHL season in Berkley on Friday, Oct. 4, with their home opener against the Monarchs. Game time is set for 4:30 p.m. at the Berkley Ice Arena.