Seven Questions with Sabrina Kim, women’s ice hockey

Sabrina Kim ’25, originally from Los Angeles, California, is a defender for the Middlebury Women’s Hockey team. Recently, Kim was named to the New England Hockey Writers Association Division III All-Star Team and earned AHCA/CCM All-American East First-Team Laurels. During her time at Middlebury, she played in 113 games and brought in an impressive 71 career points (8G, 63A).

Brooke Friberg: When did you first start playing hockey, and how has your relationship with the sport changed over time?

Sabrina Kim: I started playing hockey at the age of eight, which was considered a bit late, as I initially pursued figure skating with the dream of competing in the Olympics. However, managing two different sports with different schedules became difficult for my parents since my brother played hockey. Ultimately, my family made the decision that either he would switch to figure skating or I would switch to hockey. Therefore, I left figure skating behind and became a hockey player. At first, it was a tough transition, but over time, I grew to love the sport. Hockey was not popular for girls back then in California, but looking back and seeing how the sport has grown, I’m incredibly proud of the decision I made. Hockey has taken me to places I never imagined, from boarding school at Choate to college at Middlebury. More than that, it has introduced me to some of my closest friends and given me experiences I wouldn’t trade for anything. Through the highs and lows, the victories and challenges, hockey has shaped me into who I am today. It has taught me resilience, mental toughness, discipline, and the importance of teamwork. For that, I am forever grateful.

BF: How did you end up at Middlebury? What made you choose it, and has your experience been different than expected? 

SK: When I was at Choate, I was introduced to NESCAC schools, which I hadn’t even heard of growing up in California. I was drawn to the idea of attending a college with a similar atmosphere, one that valued both academics and athletics while allowing students to explore their personal identities. As I started conversations with NESCAC coaches and a few other schools outside the [NESCAC], I realized I wanted to go somewhere that truly wanted me as an athlete and a student. When Middlebury was the first school to call on commitment day, it felt like the right choice. My experience at Middlebury has been everything I hoped for and more. Living in Vermont has shaped me in ways I never expected, and I’ve had the privilege of being surrounded by some of the most amazing people. The sense of community here reminds me of what I loved about Choate—tight-knit, supportive, and filled with opportunities to grow. I’ve been able to join and lead clubs, explore new interests, and form friendships that will last a lifetime. The faculty and staff are just as incredible, always encouraging students to succeed. It’s been an unforgettable journey.

BF: You recently officially completed your career as a Midd hockey player — what will you miss most about the program?

SK: Without a doubt, I’ll miss the people the most — my teammates, the coaching staff, and the entire Middlebury hockey community. There’s nothing like stepping onto the ice with a group that feels like family, pushing each other every day to be better. Being part of a team on campus brings a built-in support system, a second family, and memories that will last forever. I’ll also miss the feeling of playing competitive hockey at such a high level — working toward a shared goal, celebrating wins, and overcoming challenges together. The camaraderie, the energy, and the sense of belonging that come with being part of this program are truly special.

BF: How do you think you impacted the team as a senior, and how did your teammates impact you and your final season?

SK: As a senior, I focused on fostering an environment where everyone felt welcome and supported. I wanted to create a space where my teammates could compete at their highest level, while also feeling valued and encouraged. More than anything, I hope I helped build a culture of respect, camaraderie, and competitiveness. At the same time, my teammates impacted me just as much, if not more. Their dedication, passion, and energy reminded me every day why I love this sport. They pushed me to be a better player and a better leader. My final season was special because of them, and I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.

BF: What has been your favorite team tradition or memory?

SK: One of my favorite team traditions is bus karaoke. It’s a hilarious and slightly nerve-wracking moment when each player has to sing a random song in front of the whole team, with headphones on, so you can’t hear yourself. It’s chaotic, it’s embarrassing, but it’s the best and funniest tradition we have. As for my favorite memory, winning the national championship my freshman year is something I’ll never forget. Going undefeated was an incredible feat, something I never thought was possible, but we made it happen. That season, that championship, and the journey to get there will always be one of my proudest moments.

BF: Do you have any pre-game rituals, or a hype song?

SK: Before every game, I always head to the training room to see my trainer, Shelby, and also to unwind and chat with athletes from other teams. It’s always part of my routine. I’ll get heat, cupping, or scraping done, but more than that, it’s a space to reset and get in the zone, see familiar faces and catch up before I tune in for my game. As for my favorite hype song — my teammates would probably guess this — is always going to be The Days (Notion Remix). It’s always at the top of my queue.

BF: What’s your go-to study spot on campus?

SK: You can usually find me in either [Johnson Memorial Building] or at Crossroads Cafe. As an architecture major, Johnson eventually becomes your second home. You spend countless hours working on projects, so it’s where I’m most productive. When I’m not buried in design work, I love studying at Crossroads. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s a great place to catch up with friends. Plus, a lot of my friends are baristas there, so I always enjoy stopping by when they’re working.