Feature Story

From I-Falls to Iowa: Des Moines’ Youso

 

By Danielle Rogers

 

Jake Youso is no stranger to hockey; in fact, one could say that Jake was born to be on the ice. The International Falls, Minn., native has been playing hockey most of his life, spening his high school career as a Bronco and playing a split season in Green Bay before making Des Moines his home.

“I think I started whacking a ball around the house when I was about 2 or 3,” Youso said. “I didn’t start playing until I was 5, but my earliest memories of playing were in my backyard on a rink my dad would make for my brother and me to skate on.” 

He would play his way through the International Falls youth hockey system before making his mark with the Broncos during high school.

“High school hockey in Minnesota was awesome. People all across Minnesota take a lot of pride in hockey and love to watch it,” Youso said.  

He was nominated as a Minnesota Mr. Hockey finalist, played for Team USA at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament and was the captain of Team USA at the 2006 Three Nations Tournament. His decision to play a split season last year reflects his determination and dedication to his teammates, something he has shown here in Des Moines.

“As a team, we’re focused on getting better everyday and trying to win as many games as possible before the end of the season.” Youso said. “The thing you have to remember is there is still a third of the season left and we still have a lot to play for. It is a hard feeling to overcome sometimes, but hard work pays off in the end.”

He’s been a hard working force, on and off the ice. He’s had one goal and three assists this season, but is out there giving it everything he has. Off the ice, Youso has been a large part of the Buccaneers’ “Book-aneer” Reading Program, skated in a JDRF Skate-athon that helped raise $2300, and has helped coach practices for Des Moines Area Youth Hockey teams.

Youso came to camp not knowing what to expect, but since has adjusted to Des Moines and the USHL.

“I really think this is a great league and I love the hockey in Des Moines. It’s been an eye opener for a small town kid like me, but I’ve learned a lot. All the players and coaches are well rounded and are there to improve and get better.”

He credits what he’s learned and his improvements this season to head coach J.P. Parise.

“I’ve really enjoyed having J.P. as a coach. He’s very demanding and expects your best everyday. He’s taught me, and the rest of the team, what you have to do to play at the next level.”

The next level for Youso is Division I hockey. He is committed to the University of Minnesota for next season and plans on walking away from Des Moines and the USHL a better player and person.

“This league, the USHL, is a great league for development and it challenges you to take your game to the next level. There are a lot of things you can learn from the game that you can use in life outside of hockey.”

 

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