As Minot United Hockey skates through another competitive season, the drive and support behind its players go far beyond goals and assists. Let us look into one of the families of the team. For Landin and Maddin Slind, two of the sport’s dedicated forwards, hockey isn’t just a game, it’s a rhythm that shapes their days, their responsibilities, and the way they grow.
For 10-year-old Maddin Slind, passion for hockey starts simply: “My friends and scoring goals,” he says. Between school, snacks, and practice, Maddin finds space for balance. “I have a snack, relax and go to practice,” he explains. His schoolwork fits in too. “My only homework is reading so I read in bed.” While his routine may seem laid-back, Maddin identifies one clear lesson from hockey: “how to work hard.”
His older brother, 16-year-old Landin Slind, shares a more structured viewpoint. Landin’s daily focus revolves around three essentials: “School, practice, rest/homework.” He emphasizes a personal commitment to accountability, both in the classroom and on the ice. “Hold myself accountable for my work,” he says, noting that hockey has helped strengthen his sense of responsibility. Landin’s motivation is clear. “The drive to prove that I am a strong person and player.” His advice to younger players is straightforward. “Make sure school always comes first, and when you are on the ice use all the effort you have.”
Behind the Slind brothers’ effort is a family committed to keeping them organized, balanced, and supported.
Their mother, the glue of the family, Regan Slind, manages a complex schedule with both paper and digital calendars to track practices, games, reminders, and appointments. She stresses the importance of family support, not just in logistics like rides and meals, but in encouragement through both struggles and triumphs. Regan also emphasizes the need for balance, encouraging her kids to listen to their bodies and take rest seriously when mental or physical fatigue sets in.
Reflecting on her role, she admits that the challenge of coordinating three busy kids can be overwhelming. “I didn’t realize how exhausting it is as a mom… fitting meals, appointments, family time around practices and games.” But she wouldn’t trade it for the world. “The memories and watching the kids accomplish their goals is priceless and worth every busy evening and weekend.”
Their father, Josh Slind, takes pride in supporting the family’s hockey life through practical means giving rides, making out-of-town travel possible, and helping his kids understand the value of effort and teamwork. When stress creeps in, he reminds them to focus on what they can control in the moment. “Enjoy the time and sports. The time goes too fast,” he says, a sentiment that resonates with both parents and players.
Rounding out the Slind family is freshman sister Joslin Slind, who balances school, cheer, figure skating, and family commitments with the same discipline seen in her brothers. “I try to stay on top of school and plan ahead,” she says. “School always comes first, then cheer, and I make sure I still give myself time to relax so I don’t overwork myself.”
Her days are long and carefully structured. “I go to classes from 8–3, then I have cheer practice from 3:30–6. Sometimes I have hockey games right after practice, and other times I go to church. Even on busy days, I still make sure I get my homework done.” To stay ahead, Joslin relies on preparation. “I usually try to finish my assignments early before my activities, but if I don’t, I make sure I complete them the night they’re due.”
The biggest challenge for her is time management. “Cheer is a big part of my life, so I don’t have much time to rest, even on weekends.” Still, her motivation stays strong. “I remind myself that I’m doing this for a purpose and that people look up to me. I also remember that cheer is a team commitment, and not everyone gets the opportunity to do what I’m doing.”
Together, the Slind family offers a snapshot of what it takes to balance youth sports with school, responsibility, and personal growth. For Landin, Maddin, and Joslin, the rink, the gym, and the classroom are all places where lessons are learned, character is built, and effort matters.
