Carthage students volunteer at World Junior Hockey Championships
Seven Carthage students had the opportunity to volunteer at the 2026 World Junior Hockey Championships in St. Paul, Minnesota, from Dec. 26 to Jan. 6, thanks to Minnesota Sports and Events.
The annual championship features the best hockey players under age 20 from 10 countries, many of whom have already been drafted into the NHL.
Students, along with Jim Padilla, dean of the School of Business and Economics, helped manage and operate the Bold North Breakaway Fan Fest areas at the RiverCentre and Rice Park in St. Paul. They welcomed both domestic and international fans to additional fun activities surrounding the hockey games, provided fan service, and ensured the safety and positive experience for all who attended.
“Volunteering at the IIHF World Junior Championship impacted my time here at Carthage by reinforcing my interest in pursuing a career in sports,” says Aleah Shortridge ’28. “Seeing how large-scale events are planned and executed motivated me to engage more intentionally in my coursework, particularly in group-based projects and leadership roles, where I apply the teamwork, problem-solving, and organizational skills I developed during the tournament.”
This event provided students with valuable experience in the sport management field, helping them prepare for future careers and confirm their interest in the field.