See all posts in the Kirk’s Captain Corner series

(Kirk’s Captain Corner is a regular feature that will allow Carver County residents to get to know the student-leaders of the various teams in our high schools. Today, we feature Chanhassen HS senior Quinlyn Borner, Captain of the Chaska/Chanhassen StormHawks Girls Hockey team.)

How long have you been playing hockey?

I have been playing hockey since I was 5 years old, but I learned to skate in the pond in my backyard when I was 3 years old.

When did you know hockey was the sport you wanted to play at the next level?

I have always had a love and passion for hockey. I realized that I wanted to continue to play hockey past high school when I was in 7th grade. At that time I started setting larger goals for myself and was dedicating more and more time into the sport I love.

You are part of a StormHawk cooperative team (where Chanhassen and Chaska students play together). What has it been like competing with students from two different schools?

I have played with these girls since youth, so at times I forget that we are co-opted. Being from two different competing schools, it is fun to see how we can still be family. I also really enjoy being able to be with the girls from different schools.

Your dad (Benji) and uncle (Brady) were both All-State baseball players and standout hockey players at Chaska High School. What have they shared about their playing days here that you’ve used as advice?

My Dad has been an amazing channel to talk to while navigating high school sports as they don’t always come easy. He has shared with me many stories that I can relate to, and how to use different skills in different areas. As for Brady, he shares all of his fun stories from high school and is a constant reminder to still be a kid.

You will be continuing your hockey career at Lindenwood University in the St. Louis area next season. What about being a Lion are you most excited about?

I am super excited to enter into a diverse group of players from various different places in this world. Lindenwood women’s hockey team has recently gained a new coaching staff, so I am excited to grow with the program.

What does it mean to you to be a team captain?

I am able to connect with the team and share the skills I have learned over the years. Being a captain is more than just an on-ice example but also an off-ice example as well. It is a cool role to have on a team. I have had the opportunity to help my teammates learn and grow and be able to become leaders for the team. One thing that has become more present to me in my leadership this year is, “Allowing others to lead doesn’t mean you aren’t leading yourself.” One thing that I enjoy most about being a high schooler is being able to make connections with the youth and spend time with them, I find it so valuable to have a connection with them and encourage them. I am so grateful that I have received this opportunity to be able to lead this High School team and I am so excited to see the leaders come through the program.