McKade Webster exemplifies the significant responsibility he carries as the captain of the DU Pioneers hockey team, as they stand just two victories away from securing their 10th national championship. However, for McKade, the pressure of leading his team to victory takes a backseat to his aspiration of matching his sister’s achievement of two national titles.
As a key member of the 2022 DU team, which secured victory, McKade has witnessed his sister, Makenna, achieve tremendous success in women’s hockey. Makenna recently played an integral role in Ohio State’s triumph at the women’s Frozen Four. Despite McKade’s own accomplishments, he wittily admits, “I definitely don’t want her to hold it over my head my whole life.”
McKade’s journey to this pivotal role commenced with his sister consistently outshining him. Makenna was the standout athlete in the family, playing on boys’ teams before eventually making her mark at the prestigious Shattuck St. Mary’s boarding school in Minnesota. According to McKade, “Everyone always knew how good she was. She’s better than me for sure. She’s always had it in her, and she’s been unbelievable.”
Makenna’s success has been an enduring source of motivation for her brother, resulting in his breakout season as a sophomore. This season, McKade emerged as a pivotal player for the Pioneers, contributing four game-winning goals as the team clinched 30 wins and a national championship. He attributes his and his sister’s competitive spirit to their parents, both former college athletes.
Despite the intense rivalry between the siblings, there is unwavering support for each other’s aspirations. Their respective teams, the DU Pioneers and Ohio State, have been cheering each other on throughout the season. McKade proudly states, “Everything we do there’s always a little competition involved, and it’s pushed both of us to want to be winners.”
In addition to his on-ice accomplishments, McKade has honed his leadership skills, exemplifying exceptional communication and connection. According to Pios coach David Carle, “I think a lot of it is his ability to connect with people.” Carle lauds McKade’s ability to engage in meaningful conversations with adults, interact with aspiring young athletes, and motivate his team to achieve excellence.
With a stellar senior season under his belt, McKade has surpassed his career-highs in points, goals, and assists. Despite battling minor injuries throughout the season, he has displayed unwavering commitment and resilience. Coach Carle acknowledges, “He’ll do whatever it takes to win… everyone sees the competitive spirit and nature that he has.”
The journey to becoming the captain of the Pioneers has been an enlightening experience for McKade. He emphasizes the impact of his teammates and past leaders on his growth, reflecting on the valuable lessons he has learned during his four years at Denver. While McKade admits that he wasn’t entirely prepared for the role, his willingness to learn and evolve has been evident. He shares, “You learn as you go, for sure…I think I’ve grown this year to where I’m at now.”
Despite the weight of responsibility that comes with being the captain, McKade remains focused on the job at hand, setting his sights on the ultimate prize. As he eloquently states, “Obviously, that’s the dream, but there’s still a job that needs to be done.”
McKade Webster’s journey from a competitive family atmosphere to the pinnacle of collegiate hockey leadership is a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience. As the DU Pioneers approach the threshold of potential victory, McKade’s journey is a stellar example of how sibling rivalry, familial support, and personal growth have shaped him into the exemplary leader he is today.