Leif Reingaard Biography

[Zetterberg 863]

(Leif Reingaard of the Junior Cologne Express)
Leif Reingaard: A Journey from Icy Beginnings to Hockey Stardom
 

Leif Reingaard's life story is one of determination, passion, and the pursuit of a dream that started on the frosty shores of Kulusuk Island in Greenland. Growing up in this remote and frigid corner of the world, Leif's childhood was shaped by his brother Thor and his cousin Lionel Collberg. Together, they forged a bond that would fuel their shared aspiration of becoming hockey stars, even as they navigated the challenges of their icy environment.

In the 1970s, while the rest of the world was captivated by various sports, the people of Greenland found themselves drawn to the exhilarating games of the VHL (Victory Hockey League). This newfound passion for hockey was fueled by the presence of several Greenlandic stars who had risen to prominence on the ice. For Leif, Thor, and Lionel, these games became more than just entertainment – they became a source of inspiration. Huddled together in their modest home on Kulusuk Island, the trio marveled at the performances of players like the Reinhart brothers from the Vancouver Wolves. As they watched these athletes dominate the league, a spark was ignited within Leif's heart, and a belief began to take root: "That's gonna be us one day."

However, the path to becoming hockey stars was far from easy, especially in their remote location. Despite the growing popularity of the sport in Greenland, finding opportunities to play real hockey was a challenge. The frozen lakes that surrounded their island became their makeshift rinks, and it was on these icy expanses that Leif, Thor, and Lionel honed their skills, developing their love for the game and cultivating their camaraderie.
 

Their fortunes began to change with the establishment of the Greenland Youth Hockey Academy (GYHA). This marked a turning point for the young aspiring hockey players, offering them a chance to play on a real rink with proper gear. The excitement was palpable as Leif, Lionel, and Thor finally had the chance to translate their frozen lake experiences into a structured training environment. Their dedication and skill soon became evident, catching the attention of Icelandic Hockey tournament teams, who sought their talents to bolster their rosters. Thor even achieved the remarkable feat of competing in the Brick Invitational in Canada, an accomplishment that showcased his potential on an international stage.
 

As the trio's teenage years unfolded, Thor's journey took him to the OHL, leaving Leif and Lionel to continue their pursuit of hockey greatness in Greenland. Leif's dedication to his dream was unwavering, prompting him to reach out to European junior hockey coaches in a desperate attempt to secure a spot on their teams. Armed with highlights, full game footage, and references, he cast his net wide, but initial responses were disheartening. Many coaches expressed skepticism about the level of competition in Greenland and Iceland, leading to doors being shut in his face.

Undeterred, Leif had a revelation – why not demonstrate his skills in person? Together with Lionel, he embarked on a journey that would change their lives. They invested their life savings into a trip to Germany to enter an open tryout for the Junior Cologne Express, a team competing in the Deutsche Junioren Elite Hockey Liga (DJEHL). This was their opportunity to showcase their abilities on a more conventional stage, far removed from the frozen lakes and isolated landscapes that had shaped their early years.
 

Their efforts paid off as both Leif and Lionel secured spots on the team's lineup. Initially placed as the third-pairing defense, their dedication, and proficiency quickly propelled them to the first pairing, where they became a formidable defensive duo, shutting down opponents and earning respect from their teammates and rivals alike. Leif's journey through the DJEHL was marked by remarkable statistics – 152 points in 100 games – a testament to his skills, determination, and adaptability.
 

Leif's exceptional performance did not go unnoticed, capturing the attention of the Philadelphia Reapers in the VHLM (Victory Hockey League Minors), the stepping stone to the coveted VHL. In a heartwarming twist of fate, Leif, Lionel, and Thor were reunited on the same team, creating a unique sense of family and camaraderie. Together, they navigated the challenges of a professional league, playing 24 regular-season games and 15 playoff matches, eventually reaching the finals.
 

Leif's contribution to the Reapers was significant, with 21 points accumulated over 39 games played, showcasing his ability to thrive in a highly competitive environment. As his career continues to unfold, Leif is now awaiting the VHLM draft, a pivotal moment that could set the course for his future in the world of hockey. The passion that was ignited on the icy shores of Kulusuk Island, nurtured on frozen lakes, and solidified on European rinks, is driving Leif Reingaard to pursue his dream relentlessly, proving that talent knows no boundaries, and that the power of perseverance can transcend even the most challenging beginnings.