It is the memories and lessons learned from skating on outdoor rinks with his grandfather that Ty Emberson still cherishes to this day.

“My grandpa Denny Zacho played hockey and baseball for the University of Minnesota [from 1964-67 and is a member of the school’s Hall of Fame],” explained Emberson, who started playing hockey when he was four years old. “My dad never played hockey. My grandpa was a big role model for me.

“We would skate on the outdoor rinks. One of the lessons he would teach me is to know what you do with the puck before you get it. This way you do not hold on too long and slow down the game.”

It should be no surprise that playing on the blue line was something that Emberson can credit to his grandfather’s advice, or maybe some words of wisdom that he took to heart.

“My grandpa told me there were more spots on defense [when I was growing up] and he told me it would be more fun. I’m very glad I listened to him,” explained Emberson, who is now 6 feet tall and 192 pounds. “I played defense first then I played forward from when I was 11 and 12, then I went back to D when I was 13.”

The Eau Claire, Wisconsin, native made it his goal to join USA Hockey's National Team Development Program, and that goal was fully supported by his family. It also was an opportunity for him to showcase his skills and talents.

“I learned about the NTDP, researched it and made it my goal to come here about three years ago,” he stated. “I knew some players who tried out for the team. I remember when Jake McCabe [2009-11] made the team and I wanted to get that same experience.”

“There were two former players — Jake Dowell [2001-03] and McCabe — from my hometown who played here. They gave me some pointers on what to expect.”

After playing for Eau Claire Memorial High School and Team Wisconsin U16 midget minor program in 2015-16, Emberson reached his goal when he earned a spot on Team USA for this season. It hasn’t always been easy for him, but in those tough times he likes to reflect back on some advice.

“It was a difficult adjustment,” he said. “I had tried to prepare last summer and had some different people talk to me but it is never what you expect. The first year really has been learning about yourself and that adjustment from U16-AAA to the USHL.”

Emberson credits practice and training in helping with his development. He does have a few favorite drills in practice that have helped him improve his overall game.

“The 1-on-1 games or the 3-on-2 games in the corner,” he cited. “They really make you have to compete and they make you better. Day in and day out, the intensity in practice and training will only make you better.”

He has posted 10 assists in 30 games this season, but has definitely learned much about himself since arriving in Plymouth in late August.

“If I want to do something, I put my mind to it and do it. USA Hockey has put me in a spot to get to the next level. That is something that I have always dreamed about,” said Emberson.

It also made him realize his hard work and his grandpa’s lessons when he walked into the USA locker room for the first time to see his jersey hanging in his stall.

“It was surreal. It’s a moment I wanted for a long time. It’s an honor to wear and to be in the footsteps of so many players who have already worn it,” Emberson said. 

Emberson talked about the feeling he gets when he slips the USA sweater over his head, whether it is in practice or in a game.

“It’s an amazing feeling to wear the jersey every day,” he remarked. “When we play Canada, Russia, Sweden or Finland, it makes it more special. It makes you want to help the crest any way you can.”

Emberson and his teammates earned their first tournament win, the Four Nations in Switzerland, in mid-December. The Under-17 squad beat Slovakia and Russia and lost to Switzerland in overtime. For Emberson, the game against Russia was especially memorable as he had two helpers in the 4-1 victory.

“We have worked hard and made steps,” he stated. “It was definitely a boost for our team. When we play the way we can, anything is possible.

“The game against Russia was fun. It was great to hear the national anthem. It was a special moment that I will never forget.”

And he is looking forward to even more moments like those that he can share with grandpa.

Story from Red Line Editorial, Inc.