Main Story

Former University of Southern Maine hockey player Johnny Kyte returned to campus to share lessons on balancing academics, athletics and life with current student-athletes. Drawing on his Deaflympic experience and work as an educator and entrepreneur, he urged students to build good habits, nurture relationships and stay present—not measure their college years only by wins, grades or statistics.

By the Numbers
  • Kyte played 93 games for USM from 2016 to 2020, recording 1 goal and 6 assists.
  • He is a 3-time Deaflympic medalist and a 3-time William B. Wise Scholar-Athlete.
  • USM beat Keene State 4-3 after Kyte’s presentation.
Yes, But

Kyte stressed that success extends beyond sports and academics, while acknowledging the uncertainty and setbacks that come with figuring out what to pursue after college. His message: students don’t need to have everything mapped out; they can keep learning, take chances and value the people and moments around them.

Bottom Line

Kyte’s central lesson is that athletic careers—and college years—pass quickly. Build relationships and make the most of the present, because those experiences may matter long after the final game.