Christine Rego knew exactly how much her son, Landyn, was dedicated to playing ice hockey when he built his own rink at age 6. Four years later, Landyn has emerged from a novice skater to a major scorer on the Midcoast Storm 10-and-Under team in Rockport. 

Landyn began playing ice hockey after his mother, who described herself as a “hockey fan,” signed him up for a clinic. In Portland, the Boston Bruins Academy’s Learn to Skate Program provided four lessons and equipment. For $100, Landyn learned how to skate, play ice hockey and found a passion which has burned in him ever since.

Landyn estimates he’s scored about 30 goals this season with his team posting  a 15-1-1 record. The Storm play in a league and also competes in weekend tournaments. For the Regos, the closest ice rink is in Rockport and requires even longer trips across the state. Other youth hockey venues include Auburn, Portland, Brewer, Hallowell and Presque Isle. A typical winter week for the Regos includes four practices in Rockport and weekend games. 

The long distance travel requires a major commitment for both mother and son. “Travel is definitely the most challenging aspect for us, but he loves hockey. And I love watching him play. So it’s worth it,” she said. 

Landyn agrees travel is a challenging aspect of youth hockey. Landyn will pass time on a trip playing a video game or listening to music. On the ice, there are other challenges. In youth hockey, there are restriction against physical play, and occasionally, Landyn is knocked off his skates. “Getting up after, getting knocked down is the hardest part,” he said. “Checking isn’t allowed (in youth hockey), but it still happens.”

Every fall presents a chance to get back and pursue a more enjoyable aspect of ice hockey. For Landyn, it’s lighting the lamp. “Putting the puck in the net. Scoring, That’s my favorite part,” he said. 

Landyn just doesn’t play ice hockey, he is also a fan. His favorite team is the Boston Bruins, and favorite player is Brad Marchand. Landyn has also played in a major New England  hockey venue. His Midcoast Storm team played during an intermission at a Boston Bruins’ game at TD Garden. Landyn has watched UMaine play at Alfond Arena and is interested in playing collegiate hockey. He wants to play for Boston University, but before college, Landyn has to play in high school. 

Since Boothbay Region doesn’t have a hockey team. Landyn and his mother aren’t sure of his high school hockey future. He can play for the Midcoast Storm youth hockey team until he’s 17. “After that, we don’t know. We will make that decision when the time comes,” Christine Rego said.