From their shared passion for hockey and their competitive spirit, freshmen twins Michael and Jacob Levindofske prove that teamwork doesn’t just happen on the ice: It runs in the family. Currently playing for the California Wave Hockey Club 14U A1, the Levindofske brothers are in their 9th year of playing hockey.
Initially inspired by their dad who used to play hockey and is currently a coach, the twins first laced up their skates at the age of 3 and began playing hockey at 5 years old. For nearly a decade, they’ve been on the same team and have cherished every moment of playtime together.
“We’ve never been apart,” Jacob Levindofske said.
As part of the California Wave, a highly competitive travel team, the Levindofske twins have traveled across the country for various tournaments, including Michigan, Arizona, and Utah. Last season, in November, their team won the Silver Stick Regionals in San Jose which further led them with the opportunity to compete at Silver Stick Internationals in Michigan, an achievement which is a testament to their passion and hard work.
Jacob, this season’s team captain, and Michael, the assistant captain, bring their unique strengths to the team.
“For me, as the captain, I try to lead by example and keep the team motivated. Other than that, if there’s a problem I do what I can to help. And basically just try to keep the team focused,” said Jacob.
Their different positions are a testament to their various strengths— Jacob is a former goalie who now plays defensemen while Michael plays center.
“Basically, I score and he prevents the other team from scoring,” said Michael.
Both the brothers have found their collaboration to be dynamic during games. They communicate both on and off the ice, talking to each other on the bench as well as huddling together as a team in between matches.
They also find inspiration in their hockey heroes. Michael looks up to Sidney Crosby who plays as a center for the Pittsburgh Penguins and as a forward for the National Canadian Hockey team. Whereas, Jacob is inspired by their coach for his guidance, leadership qualities, and how they impact the team’s performance.
As the season progresses, the twins have their sights set on achieving a major accomplishment; winning both the state championships and playoffs.
They hope to achieve these goals by upkeeping their long-time pre-game rituals, which include listening to artists such as Kanye West and Jay-Z for Michael and simply “sitting in silence” for Jacob.
The Levindofske twins carry their passion and drive for hockey into every aspect of their lives. Hoping to continue to play hockey for many more years to come, they strive to improve their individual skills, teamwork, and leadership qualities with every practice, every match, and every tournament.
