With football behind him, Blackhawks prospect Mason West ready for hockey career to flourish

July 13, 2026 - 19:13

Mason West, a prospect for the Chicago Blackhawks, has made a definitive choice about his athletic future. After years of splitting his time between football and hockey, West is now a full-time hockey player. Every aspect of his daily routine, from how he lifts weights to how he trains, rests, and practices, is now done with only one sport in mind.

The transition was not an easy one. West was a standout football player, and the physical demands of the gridiron helped shape him as an athlete. But he realized that to truly excel in hockey, he needed to commit fully. The Blackhawks organization has been supportive of his decision, seeing the raw potential and athleticism he brings to the ice.

Now, West is focused on refining his skills and adapting his body to the specific needs of hockey. He is working on his skating, his puck handling, and his hockey sense. The hope is that by dedicating all his energy to one sport, he can accelerate his development and eventually make an impact at the professional level. For West, the path forward is clear: hockey is no longer just a passion, it is his career.