Learner Spotlight: Samantha Sada

Introducing Samantha Sada, a first grade pint-sized powerhouse!

Samantha’s journey on ice began in kindergarten with the Learn to Play Hockey program, a free program sponsored by the Anaheim Ducks for children 4 to 12 years of age. The program triggered her interest in hockey and she began the independent study Hockey Initiation Program at The Rinks Lakewood using her instructional funds.

With one year of learning under her 6-year-old belt, she tried out to join the Lady Ducks junior league this fall and made the team just as she began her first grade year. independent studying with iLEAD has allowed her to develop her skills through the Hockey Initiation Program, as well as providing the flexibility to travel to the games every two weeks across the state of California.

She has also had wonderful opportunities to meet great role models like Cayla Barnes, who plays defense for the USA Olympic Hockey Team. Barnes began her journey to the Olympic team as a young Lady Duck right around Samantha’s current age!

When Samantha is not on the ice, she loves to participate in her American Heritage Girls Troop crafting and serving her local community. She enjoys cooking, learning through science experiments, and excels in math.

Between hockey, cooking classes, swimming lessons and serving with her troop, she squeezes in time to read her favorite book series, Magic Tree House and Junie B. Jones books. Her mom often asks if she would like to skip out on any of the activities that keep her so busy, but Samantha has yet to decline as she eagerly awaits each opportunity.

When asked why she loves independent studying, Samantha’s answer was simple and to the point – “It’s fun!”

We agree, Samantha, we agree!

Samantha would like to encourage iLEAD learners who might be interested in learning hockey to check out the free Learn to Play Hockey Program.  She would like to especially encourage girls to try it out!

Additionally, she would like to share where you can learn to play hockey through our approved vendor, The Rinks. Both the Yorba Linda and Lakewood Rinks locations offer the independent study Hockey Initiative Course.