A LETTER FROM MARK MATSUBA
(Courtesy of The Brandon Sun) — Stepping away from hockey has been the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. I have had an amazing and fulfilling time as a Brandon Wheat King and will always remember the people who have helped me along the way. There are no words to express my gratitude towards all of the staff in the Wheat Kings organization, the community and of course my billet parents for the support throughout my two seasons. Being a Wheat King not only made me a better player but also a better person and I will always take that with me no matter where I go. I was lucky enough to have amazing teammates to share an incredible two years in the Western Hockey League. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime.
I would like to thank the Grebinskis, my billet family. I can’t put into words how thankful I am to have had such an amazing family to live with. It felt like I hadn’t left my home here in Alberta. They have had a huge impact on the person that I am. To think, a family would open their house up to someone and welcome them into their family is amazing to me and I can’t thank them enough.
Finally, I’d like to thank Kelly McCrimmon for giving me the opportunity to be a Wheat King. It was always a career goal of mine to make it to the Western Hockey League and I would not have wanted to spend my time in any other organization. The Brandon Wheat Kings are truly a worldclass organization and I wish nothing but the best for the staff and players moving forward.
Mark Matsuba Spruce Grove, Alta.
