Region: Minnesota
Minnesota Regional Scout
Mike Nelson grew up playing youth hockey for the White Bear Lake Association in Minnesota, which at the time was the largest youth hockey program in North America. Throughout his youth career, he was frequently invited to play for Selects and All-Star teams. Nelson continued his hockey journey by playing high school hockey for the White Bear Lake Bears, graduating in 1996. He was fortunate to compete in the coveted Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament.
Nelson played collegiately for St. Olaf College (NCAA Division III), graduating in 2000 with a BA in Economics and Management Studies. He holds a Level 4 USA Hockey certification and has coached numerous teams across various youth levels. Additionally, Nelson has been a player tryout evaluator for many years at multiple levels and has served as a skills development coach at numerous summer camps.
One of Nelson’s greatest highlights is witnessing the growth of the game and passing on the importance of passion, character, work ethic, focus, and integrity to players, both on and off the ice.
He currently resides in Excelsior, MN, with his supportive wife, two amazing children (a son and a daughter), and their personable Golden Retriever. When not at the rink or watching hockey, Nelson enjoys fishing, spending time with family and friends