Poulin: 'When you want to achieve something, anything is possible'

MONTREAL -- In a recently released "Ask A Hab" video for HabsTV, Marie-Philip Poulin stated that her childhood dream was to play in the Olympics.

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Poulin, 31, has accomplished that objective four times over for Canada, earning three gold medals and one silver medal along the way.
Individual effort and natural talent played a key part in making her Olympic aspirations a reality of course, but it wasn't a solo journey.
"When you surround yourself with good people, when you're disciplined, when you want to achieve something, anything is possible," said Poulin, who also boasts nine World Championship medals on her remarkable resume. "Many people helped me achieve my dream when I was 18 years old."

The Beauceville, QC native was definitely one of those "good people" helping Canadiens prospects chase their respective NHL dreams at Development Camp last month on the South Shore.
It officially marked the start of her tenure as a part-time player development consultant with the organization after being hired in early June.
When it comes to developing youngsters, Poulin has several major areas of focus moving forward.
"The level of competition, eagerness, and always having the will to work hard. We provide the tools to young players, so when they go back to their teams, it's up to them to put in the work," explained Poulin. "I really think being competitive, being here to learn, and having self-awareness are really important."
Given her vast experience and countless accolades, the two-time Clarkson Cup champion and three-time CWHL MVP is a perfect resource for prospects to consult with.
She's excited to play a significant role in both their individual and collective growth.
"The guys are all talented, they have a lot of skills, but really the message is to keep training when no one is watching, or when many people are watching," emphasized Poulin. "I think always having the same work ethic is something that's very important, and I hope I can bring that."

If questions about thriving under pressure ever arise, Poulin obviously has the kids covered.
Keep in mind that she's the first player of any gender to score in four consecutive Olympic hockey finals.
"When you have a high-pressure moment, just remember why you started - because you love the game. Why? Because you're having fun. You look around the room, look around wherever you are, realize who you're with, and just remember to have fun. When you're prepared, when you're ready to go, in that moment, at the end of the day it's just go out there, let loose, and have fun," mentioned Poulin. "I've learned that a lot over the last couple of years, in high-pressure moments, to just, honestly, take a breather. There's moments where you start panicking, you start stressing, but take a step back, take a breather, remember why you're there and why you started, and at the end of the day, it's a game and you're having fun."
The former Boston University (BU) standout received rave reviews from her new pupils.
Second-rounder Owen Beck was thrilled to skate with Poulin and pick her brain.
"She's an icon in women's hockey. You know the amount of things she's done to grow the game. What she can do for us on the ice is unbelievable," praised Beck. "Having one simple conversation with her is fantastic. You learn so much from it."

Fellow second-round selection Luke Tuch was equally impressed.
Coincidentally, Tuch is actually heading into his junior season at BU.
"I've watched her in past tournaments and she's the Wayne Gretzky of women's hockey. She's a legend," said Tuch. "I scored in one of the mini games and she came up to me and said, 'It must be the BU connection.' We were just chatting a little bit. Talking to her was pretty cool."