MARQUETTE, Mich. - On Monday, November 7, former Wildcat hockey player Tom Laidlaw addressed student-athletes and coaches about his "true grit life" and how this mentality has influenced him throughout his life. Laidlaw uses this mantra and a strict daily routine to give everyone he encounters the best version of himself each and every day.

Laidlaw spoke to the captive audience about setting goals and working to achieve them. He stressed the importance of not being intimidated by a daunting task that seems impossible to complete. Instead, Laidlaw has a mindset to focus on the small immediate step that can be completed and continue to take one small step until the larger goal is reached. In addition, he encouraged the student athletes to "say yes to your life and go all out" in trying new adventures and opportunities as they become available. Finally, Laidlaw noted that the students, "may not get it done the right way, but keep on trying because if you don't quit, you won't fail."

Laidlaw played hockey for Northern when the program first began and was a four year captain on the team.  He continued his hockey career playing 11 seasons in the NHL for the New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings. After retiring from the NHL, he became a player agent and is also a motivational speaker. Laidlaw also appeared on the TV series Survivor and is credited as being the first Canadian to be selected for the show.