Passion and Legacy: Trey Augustine’s Journey in Hockey

For many athletes, the focus on winning can overshadow the simple joys of the game. Yet for Trey Augustine, a sophomore goaltender at Michigan State, the mantra “have fun out there” encapsulates not only his philosophy but honors a cherished legacy left by his grandfather, Kenneth Augustine Sr.

A Grandfather’s Influence

This profound phrase, which Kenneth Sr. repeated to Trey before every hockey match, serves as a guiding principle for the young athlete. Trey reflected on its significance, stating, “That always keeps me coming back to, ‘this is why I do it.’ I do have fun out there. And I love coming to the rink every day…” His appreciation for the camaraderie around him is a testament to the community spirit nurtured by a shared love for hockey.

The Road to NCAA Championship

Augustine is now a pivotal player in Michigan State’s quest for its fourth NCAA championship, the first since 2007. As the No. 1 seed in the Toledo Regional, they will initiate their championship run against Cornell on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. ET.

Roots and Early Beginnings

Born in 2005, Trey was immersed in a hockey-centric culture early on. Kenneth Sr., affectionately referred to as “Senior,” had moved to Michigan in the early 1980s for his job at Ford. The family later settled near the rinks where Trey began honing his skills at just eight years old. Throughout his journey, Senior remained his staunchest supporter, attending games in frigid venues across North America.

A Strong Bond

“Seeing him at every game he could be at, just sitting in the stands all bundled up…” Trey remembers fondly. For his mother, Yvette, the connection between Trey and Senior was profound, emphasizing how he always engaged with Trey and provided unwavering support throughout his journey. This strong familial bond has been a cornerstone of Trey’s development, both as a hockey player and as an individual.

Living Up to a Legacy

Interestingly, Trey shares his name with his father and grandfather, making him the third Kenneth Augustine. Therefore, he is affectionately known as Trey. “I’m kind of always playing for my grandpa,” he explained, highlighting how deeply intertwined his identity is with his family history.

Tributes in Spirit

Kenneth Sr. passed away in January 2023 just as Trey was gearing up for the U18 World Championships. Despite the heartache, Trey chose to channel his grief into his performance. His family ensured Senior’s presence was felt throughout the tournament by wearing a special blue USA hat that Kenneth Sr. favored.

Moments of Glory

During the emotional gold medal game against Sweden, Trey’s resilience and determination shone through. As the Americans battled back from a 2-0 deficit, Trey’s performance helped propel Team USA to victory, leading to a poignant sense of connection to his grandfather. “I really wanted my grandpa to see my first gold medal,” he said of the unforgettable moment.

Achievements and Recognition

Since his initial victory at the U18 level, Trey has continued to excel, claiming two more gold medals at the World Juniors in 2024 and early 2025, where he made history as the most successful goaltender for the U.S. National Team at the World Championships. As a second-year student at Michigan State, he was named Big Ten Goaltender of the Year, solidifying his status as one of the top players in college hockey.

A Symbol of Legacy

In honor of his grandfather, Trey wears the number 1 jersey and features a helmet decal that pays tribute to Kenneth Augustine Sr. Yvette notes, “He’ll always just carry him with him. He’ll always have his voice in his head.” As Trey continues to chase victory in his collegiate career, he also embodies the values imparted by Kenneth Sr.: the importance of community, authenticity, and positivity.

Looking Forward

Having been drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 2023, Trey Augustine’s journey intertwines personal ambition with family tradition. As he prepares for another NCAA tournament, his commitment to honor his grandfather’s legacy continues to provide inspiration beyond the rink. “I think he’d be extremely proud,” Trey affirms, emphasizing that success transcends victories—it encapsulates the impact one has on others and the character one builds along the way.