Here in Greater Lansing, the journey to the world’s biggest stage often begins on hometown ice. Our region has a proud tradition of shaping athletes whose determination and talent have carried them all the way to the Winter Olympic Games, showing that even from a local community, Olympic dreams can take flight.
Spartan alumni Jim Slater embodies that journey. A standout on the Michigan State University men’s ice hockey team and a two‑year captain, Slater's time in East Lansing played a big role in his development as a player, leading him to be selected for the 2018 U.S. Men’s Olympic Ice Hockey team.
Lansing Origins
A Hobey Baker Award finalist, Slater grew in a culture built on competition and camaraderie. That atmosphere of excellence shaped his mindset long before he wore the red, white, and blue.
“Michigan State does a really cool thing where in the summertime, a lot of [alumni] come back and they hold an annual pro camp,” he said. “Being around those guys and seeing how they handle themselves, how hard they work on the ice, off the ice, it opens your eyes up.”
His years at MSU taught him that every game mattered not just to him, but to his teammates and the fans who filled the stands. He found that same sense of pride and responsibility when he joined Team USA Hockey.
“At a great university like Michigan State, you have lots of people that are alumni or fans of Michigan State hockey,” he said. “I think that's the same thing, anytime you put on your country's colors, now you're representing your country to the grandest scale.”
Lasting Impact
Two legendary MSU coaches, Ron Mason and Rick Comley, pushed Slater to sharpen his mental game, teaching him lessons that stayed with him throughout his Olympic career.
“I totally believe that you can learn something from anyone,” he said.
Jim's advice to young athletes echoes that philosophy: never stop improving. Just because you’re the best one year doesn’t mean you’ll stay the best forever.
“As long as you're improving from year to year, that's all that matters,” he said.
From East Lansing to the Olympic arena, Jim Slater’s journey reflects the power of local growth. His story is a reminder that greatness grows from everyday dedication; when talent meets local support, even the path to the Olympics can start with a single stride across a Greater Lansing rink.
International Representation
That pride extends beyond the United States, as two former Spartans; Wojciech Stachowiak (2018–20) and Dustin Gazley (2007–11) will represent Team Germany and Team Italy at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. Stachowiak, a Gdansk native and Michigan State alum, rose through European and North American leagues before joining the Tampa Bay Lightning. Gazley, a former Spartan standout and ECHL Rookie of the Year, now skates with Bolzano HC in Italy’s top league and will suit up for Team Italy next month.
Both players began developing their craft in East Lansing before taking their game international, showing how Spartan influence extends far beyond U.S. borders. From MSU’s ice to Olympic ice, the Greater Lansing community continues to help define what it means to play for something greater than yourself.
Lansing Sports Commission
The Lansing Sports Commission is a proud supporter of MSU Athletics programs. Our deep ties with Michigan State University allow collaborations for hosting tournaments and events at collegiate level facilities. Contact us to learn more about we can help you host your next sports event in mid-Michigan.
