Want to Make a Living Helping Others Feel Their Best? Here’s Where to Start

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If you’ve ever helped a friend choose healthier meals, designed a workout plan for fun, or just loved that feeling of motivating someone to take care of themselves—you might be sitting on more than a good habit. You might be sitting on a career path.

Helping others feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally is not only rewarding—it’s in demand. From fitness and nutrition to wellbeing and mindset coaching, more people than ever are looking for support to live healthier lives. And thanks to flexible, hands-on courses, it’s easier than ever to build the knowledge and credentials needed to turn your passion into a profession.

Here’s how to know if a career in wellness, fitness, or personal development might be right for you—and what to do if you’re ready to get started.

Your Natural Strength Might Be Someone Else’s Missing Piece

The wellness industry is vast, but at its heart, it’s about connection. It’s about understanding people’s struggles and helping them move forward—whether that’s physically, emotionally, or both. If you’ve ever felt fulfilled after helping someone:

  • Stay consistent with exercise

  • Improve their mindset or daily habits

  • Make healthier choices with food

  • Build confidence in their body or routine

…you’re already doing some of the work that professionals in this field do every day. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to care, keep learning, and be someone others trust.

Careers That Help Others Thrive (and Keep You Energised Too)

One of the best things about this career path? You get to help others feel their best—while doing work that feels great to you, too.

Here are a few roles that blend purpose with flexibility and fulfilment:

  • Personal Trainer – Guide clients through safe, effective workouts tailored to their goals.

  • Nutrition Coach – Help people understand food, fuel their bodies, and ditch diet culture.

  • Health or Wellness Coach – Support clients in building habits that last—across fitness, food, sleep, and stress.

  • Group Fitness Instructor – Build community and energy through group classes in studios, gyms, or online.

  • Mindset or Motivation Coach – Focus on helping people break through mental blocks and stay accountable.

These aren’t just side gigs—they can be full-blown careers, freelance businesses, or part of a larger offering if you decide to grow your brand or open your own practice.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

You don’t need years of study or a long academic background. You need the right foundations, the willingness to learn, and real-world application.

Most entry-level paths require:

  • A certification or short course (in fitness, nutrition, or coaching)

  • Basic understanding of anatomy, movement, or behavioural change

  • Strong communication and empathy

  • The ability to motivate, guide, and adapt to different clients

Many programs are designed for adults changing careers or upskilling—so they’re practical, flexible, and focused on helping you start earning as quickly as possible.

Learning While You Work (Yes, It’s Doable)

One of the biggest advantages of this space? It’s hands-on. You don’t need to master everything before you start helping people. In fact, the best way to learn is by doing—and many successful coaches started by training a few friends or taking on part-time clients while studying.

Here’s a rough roadmap to follow:

  1. Pick a focus (fitness, nutrition, habit change, etc.)

  2. Enroll in a course or program that fits your schedule and goals

  3. Start applying what you learn—with real people, in real situations

  4. Build your reputation and experience through consistent work

  5. Expand into niche areas or additional certifications as you grow

The key? Start small, stay consistent, and treat it like a real career—even if you’re building it one step at a time.

Why People Stay in This Industry Long-Term

Sure, it’s meaningful to help someone reach their goal weight or finally stick to a routine—but those aren’t the only wins. Over time, wellness professionals build deep client relationships, see lives transform, and become trusted guides in people’s health journeys.

And there are other perks too:

  • Flexible hours (great for parents, side hustlers, or travellers)

  • Hybrid options (in-person and online)

  • Ability to scale (add classes, programs, or products)

  • Work that keeps you active and inspired—not stuck behind a desk

The better you get at your craft, the more freedom you have to choose how, where, and with whom you work.

It’s Not About Being Perfect—It’s About Showing Up

If you’re worried you’re not “qualified” enough yet—take a breath. Nobody starts with all the answers. What matters more than your six-pack or knowledge of macro splits is your ability to connect with people, show up for them, and guide them with consistency and care.

Clients don’t expect perfection. They want someone who understands the struggle, has walked a similar path, and knows how to meet them where they are.

If that sounds like you, you’re already closer than you think.

Panthers to Play Lightning in 1st Round of Stanley Cup Playoffs

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Get ready to make the trek across Alligator Alley, the Battle of Florida is back.

 

On Tuesday, the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning locked into a first-round series matchup, making it the second-consecutive season and fourth time in the past five years the two in-state rivals met in the postseason.

 

In the first-round last year, the Panthers knocked out the Lightning in five games en route to its first Stanley Cup in franchise history.

 

As the No. 2 seed in the Atlantic and higher seed in this matchup, the Lightning will have home-ice advantage. Last year when these teams met in the playoffs, Florida had home-ice, winning all three games at Amerant Bank Arena while also stealing Game 3 on the road at Amalie Arena.

 

This time around, games 1 and 2 will be in Tampa before the series flips over to Sunrise for games 3 and 4.

 

While the core of both teams look very similar to when they met last year, there are noteworthy newcomers on each side of this Sunshine State playoff rivalry.

 

The Panthers lost players like Brandon Montour, Vladimir Tarasenko and Steven Lorentz — all of whom made an impact last postseason. Despite their losses, the defending Stanley Cup champions added plenty of new faces including Seth Jones, Brad Marchand and rookie standout Mackie Samoskevich.

 

As for the Lightning, their most noticeable departures include Mikhail Sergachev — who played two games last postseason — and former captain Steven Stamkos, who had five goals and six points (5-1-6) in the first-round against Florida last year. Tampa has retooled quite nicely, adding guys like Jake Guentzel, J.J. Moser and getting two-time Stanley Cup champion Ryan McDonagh back in Lightning colors.

 

In the other Atlantic series, the division-winning Toronto Maple Leafs will take on the Ottawa Senators (also in the Atlantic), who are locked into wild card 1.

 

The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are set to begin on Saturday, April 19.

 

Start dates and times are to be determined.

Panthers Locked into Atlantic Division Third Seed, Will Start 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Road

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SUNRISE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers’ quest to become back-to-back Stanley Cup champions will officially begin on the road.

Following a 5-3 regulation loss to the New York Rangers on Monday night at Amerant Bank Arena, the Panthers locked into the 3-seed in the Atlantic Division. They will begin their title defense against whoever finishes second in the division between the Tampa Bay Lightning or Toronto Maple Leafs.

 

 What we know

The Panthers (47-30-4) will play its final game of the regular season in Tampa on Tuesday night against the Lightning.

 

While the Atlantic Divisions’s 2-seed vs 3-seed first-round playoff matchup is likely to be the Battle of Florida, Tuesday’s contest — which will be the Lightning’s second to last game of the regular season — holds little value to the Panthers as they are confirmed the No. 3 seed.

 

What can change is who finishes second in the Atlantic between the Maple Leafs and Lightning.

 

Toronto needs just one point in its final two games — at Buffalo on Tuesday and home vs Detroit on Thursday — to clinch the Atlantic Division title and set up a Battle of Ontario first round matchup against the Ottawa Senators (wild card 1).

 

For Tampa, they’ll need Toronto to go pointless in the final two games of the regular season and win out its remaining two games — at home against Florida on Tuesday and away against the New York Rangers Thursday. One of those wins will also need to come in regulation as Toronto holds the second tie breaker (ROW).

 

What we don’t know

On the Panthers side, seeding is set for the first round and they know they’ll be starting on the road. Playoff matchups can be official as soon as Tuesday night if the Panthers — who are expected to rest most of their top players — defeat the Lightning in Tampa.

No playoff start dates or times have been confirmed but we do know that the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs are set to begin on Saturday, April 19.

Lundell Scores Shootout Winner, Panthers Win Third Straight Game

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SUNRISE, Fla. — The Florida Panthers continue to pick up steam as the Stanley Cup Playoffs approach.

 

Despite missing a handful of star players on Saturday night — including Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart (rest) — the Panthers took down the Buffalo Sabres 3-2 thanks to Anton Lundell’s shootout winner.

 

The Panthers have won three consecutive games after losing the previous five.

 

In just his sixth start for the Panthers, Vitek Vanecek stopped 26 of 28 shots and shut the door on all three Sabres in the shootout for his second win with Florida.

 

“The extra point is really important,” Vanecek said. “I didn’t win a couple of games so I’m really happy I got this one, I hope I keep going like that.”

 

Following the victory, the Panthers improved to 47-29-4 on the season and have now equalled the Tampa Bay Lightning’s 98 points (Tampa has played one fewer game and still owns the tiebreaker).

 

Carter Verhaeghe opened the scoring for the Panthers, picking up his second goal in as many games after going 13 straight contests without getting on the board. Verhaeghe finished with two points on the night (1-1-2).

 

“It gets frustrating sometimes if you’re kind of trying to do the right thing and they don’t fall,” Verhaeghe said when asked about snapping his previous scoring slump. “It definitely feels good to get one. Just seeing it visually go in the back of the net is kind of nice.”

 

Jesse Puljujarvi also scored for the Panthers, getting his first goal with the team at the 14:47 mark of the second period.

 

“He’s a very interesting player,” Panthers head coach Paul Maurice said of Puljujarvi post game.“He’s big. Clearly is not afraid to hit — he’s had a whole bunch of them, but not running around for it, he’s playing the game as well.

 

“There’s some offensive instinct in him. We believe that there’s an impactful player there.”

 

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen had 32 saves while Rasmus Dahlin and JJ Peterka both scored for the Sabres, who fell to 35-37-7 in the loss.

 

With two games left in the regular season, the Panthers currently sit third in the Atlantic Division with their final two games coming against the New York Rangers and the Tampa Bay Lightning — who is second in the Atlantic.

 

If the standings were to hold, the Panthers and Lightning would face each other in the first-round, with the series starting in Tampa.

 

PANTHERS NOTES

Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart (rest) both got the night off.

 

Sam Bennett (upper-body) also didn’t play on Saturday.

 

Uvis Balinskis played in his 100th career NHL game and picked up the primary assist on Puljujarvi’s goal.

Marchand Scores First Goal With Panthers in 4-1 Win Over Red Wings

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SUNRISE, Fla. — Mackie Samoskevich had the game winner, Brad Marchand scored his first goal as a Florida Panther and the Cats took down the Detroit Red Wings 4-1 on Thursday night at Amerant Bank Arena.

 

“I’m just enjoying this whole journey,” Marchand said. “It’s such a unique experience for myself. I’ve been part of really good teams that have accomplished big things and some that haven’t. And regardless, what you realize is that these opportunities are very few and far between, and you got to enjoy every day in this league. I’m having a lot of fun right now. The guys are awesome.”

 

Evan Rodrigues and Aleksander Barkov also scored for the Panthers as they improved to 37-34-7.

 

Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 22 of 23 shots to pick up his 33rd win of the season.

 

Alex DeBrincat had the lone Red Wings goal in a disappointing result for Detroit, who is all but out of contention for a playoff spot, as they are eight points behind Montreal (wild card 2) with just four games remaining in their season.

 

In the victory, Panthers head coach Paul Maurice overtook Barry Trotz for third place on the All-Time NHL wins list with 915. Only Scottie Bowman (1,244) and Joel Quenneville (969) have more wins in NHL history.

 

Maurice gave a humble, team first answer, when asked about his milestones.

 

“My appreciation for things is the whole group here [and] how much I enjoy sitting in the coach’s office with Bill as well, the equipment guys, the medical guys and the players,” Maurice said. “This has been wholly and completely unexpected level of joy that I find in my job because of the men that are around here.”

 

He added: “If I was asked today the memory, it’s this group, it’s the fun that we’ve had.”

 

With three games remaining in the season, the Panthers sit third in the Atlantic Division with 96 points. They are one point behind the Tampa Bay Lightning.

 

Panthers Notes

Carter Verhaeghe did not play in Thursday night’s win. The 29-year-old forward was the latest veteran Panther to be given a rest day as the postseason is approaching.

 

Jesper Boqvist returned to the lineup after being a healthy scratch in Tuesday night’s win against Toronto.

 

Nico Sturm also returned to the lineup on Thursday after missing the past four games with an upper-body injury.

 

Defenseman Seth Jones and Niko Mikkola were paired up on the blue line for the Panthers, while Gustav Forsling and Nate Schmidt were the other top-4 pair.

 

Defenseman Aaron Ekblad was cleared by the NHL/NHLPA to resume all team activities except for playing in games. Ekblad was suspended 20 games last month for violating the NHL/NHLPA Performance Enhancing Substances Program.

 

“It’s really important [to have Ekblad back with the group],” Paul Maurice said postgame. “It lets him come in and buy a lot of dinners for the guys, right? His credit card will take a beating.”

 

”He steps on the ice and it’s another six-four, six-five guy on your blue line and now all of the guys in red (practice jerseys) look big. And it adds a little something.”

 

Ekblad is eligible to return for Game 3 of the first-round.

NCAA baseball insights for betting success

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The thrill of NCAA baseball lies in its unpredictability, making it a favorite among sports enthusiasts. With the season well underway, fans are eager to see which college teams will dominate the field. Betting on these matchups adds an extra layer of excitement, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the sport.

The excitement of NCAA baseball is palpable as college teams take to the field, showcasing their skills and determination. This season promises thrilling matchups and unexpected upsets, drawing in fans from across the nation. As you follow your favorite teams, integrating betting strategies can enhance your experience, providing a deeper connection to the games. The best online sports betting sites offer a platform to explore these strategies, enabling informed wagering decisions.

Top college baseball programs

This year’s NCAA baseball season highlights some of the top college programs known for their strong performances and rich histories. Teams like Vanderbilt, Florida State, and Texas A&M consistently showcase exceptional talent and strategic gameplay. These programs have developed reputations for producing MLB-ready players who make significant impacts on professional teams. Watching these powerhouses play offers fans insights into high-level collegiate competition and the next generation of baseball stars.

Each program brings its own strengths and unique playing style, contributing to the dynamic nature of college baseball. Vanderbilt’s precision pitching and Florida State’s explosive offense exemplify the diverse approaches that define top-tier teams. As the season progresses, these teams aim to maintain their dominance while navigating a schedule filled with challenges. Their early performances often set the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating season.

The anticipation surrounding these programs is further amplified by their storied rivalries and intense conference competitions. Fans eagerly await matchups that test each team’s resilience and adaptability on the field. The strategies employed by these programs offer valuable insights for bettors looking to understand the intricacies of NCAA baseball and capitalize on betting opportunities.

Upcoming matchups analysis

The NCAA baseball calendar is peppered with key matchups that promise both excitement and unpredictability. Early-season games often reveal potential upsets as underdog teams look to make their mark against established powerhouses. Observing team dynamics during these contests is crucial for understanding how each squad adapts under pressure.

Matchups such as LSU versus Mississippi State or Arkansas against Ole Miss are not only thrilling but provide a stage for evaluating team chemistry and strategy execution. Coaches’ decisions during crucial moments can significantly influence game outcomes, offering bettors insights into potential betting angles.

Analyzing player performances in these games can uncover emerging talents poised to impact future contests positively. Key player injuries or standout performances might alter team dynamics, thus affecting overall predictions and betting odds. This continuous evolution makes it essential for bettors to stay informed about upcoming games and leverage these insights for strategic wagering decisions.

Team strengths and weaknesses

Understanding team strengths and weaknesses is pivotal when considering NCAA baseball bets. Each team exhibits distinct characteristics that define their playing style; recognizing these traits helps you assess potential game outcomes accurately.

For instance, a team’s depth in pitching can provide a competitive edge in closely contested games, while a robust batting lineup may dominate weaker defenses. Identifying these elements allows you to evaluate how they might exploit opponents’ vulnerabilities effectively.

Conversely, acknowledging weaknesses—such as inconsistent fielding or reliance on star players—enables you to anticipate challenges teams might face throughout the season. This knowledge empowers you to make more informed decisions when assessing betting odds, ultimately enhancing your wagering strategy.

Betting strategies

Navigating the world of NCAA baseball betting requires strategic planning and disciplined decision-making. Incorporating comprehensive research into team performances helps refine your approach and identify valuable opportunities within the market.

One effective strategy involves focusing on specific conferences or rivalries where historical data provides insights into potential outcomes. Familiarity with team dynamics within these contexts aids in predicting game results more accurately.

Emphasizing responsible wagering practices ensures that your engagement remains enjoyable without unnecessary risks. By setting clear limits on bets and continuously educating yourself about evolving trends within NCAA baseball, you position yourself for a rewarding experience throughout this exhilarating season.

Informed betting decisions are crucial in maximizing enjoyment from NCAA baseball matchups this season. Leveraging insights from trusted sources enhances your understanding of game dynamics while utilizing reliable platforms ensures safe wagering experiences. As you immerse yourself in this thrilling sport, remember that informed choices lead not only to potential wins but also elevate your overall appreciation for college baseball’s captivating journey.

Returning Strong: Andrew Wiggins Discusses His Comeback from a Persistent Hamstring Injury

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This NBA season has been a rollercoaster for many teams. Right now, a lot of attention is on Andrew Wiggins, who brings fresh hope to both fans and teammates. Wiggins recently shared updates about his recovery from a tough hamstring injury, and his words have filled everyone with optimism. Known for his talent on the basketball court, the Golden State Warriors have missed his presence. They’ve been trying to find steady ground in the fast-paced world of the NBA, and having Wiggins back is crucial. 

 

His journey back highlights the tough challenges athletes face and how they work tirelessly to overcome them. Wiggins’s return is significant beyond just his personal game stats. For the Warriors, having him back can alter how other teams play defense, creating opportunities for his teammates to excel. When a star player like Wiggins comes back after an injury, it can greatly influence the team’s performance. It injects new energy and boosts everyone’s confidence, potentially turning around the team’s fortunes.

 

From a betting perspective, Wiggins’s return has undoubtedly altered the odds for the Warriors in upcoming matchups. Sports analysts have begun to take note of how his unique blend of wing defense and scoring ability can pivot a game in favor of the Warriors. As sports enthusiasts and bettors prepare for the NBA best bets season, Wiggins’s integration back into the lineup has become a focal point for predicting outcomes in closely contested games. Now that he’s back, the Warriors will be stronger in the league. His return gives them a good chance to reach the playoffs. With Wiggins healthy and playing again, the games in the Western Conference have become less predictable. This change could mean more excitement and tough competition for everyone watching the season unfold.

 

Wiggins’s injury wasn’t just about his body; it was also a mental challenge. His hamstring injury kept him off the court for a long time, making fans wonder if the Warriors could still compete without him. While recovering, Wiggins showed how determined he was to come back even stronger. This determination came from his personal drive and professional dedication. He talked about his journey to recovery, highlighting how important it is to be patient and persistent when facing injuries that can make it tough for athletes to perform at their best.

 

He explained that going through rehabilitation was a crucial step, not just for physical recovery but also for building mental strength. During this time, he had to watch his teammates play while he sat out, which felt very lonely. This solitude gave him a chance to think deeply about himself and understand the game better. It also helped him focus on areas he needed to improve while he was off the court. People often pay more attention to the physical side of injuries, but Wiggins emphasized how important a positive attitude is for healing faster and getting back to basketball.

 

When Wiggins rejoined the team, both fans and experts were eager to see how he would fit back into the Warriors. He talked about focusing not just on regaining his strength but also on working with his teammates again. The team needs to play well together, so Wiggins used this time to get ready both physically and as part of the team’s style of play. His ability to adjust and grow after his injury shows strength and determination that a lot of athletes have.

His journey highlights the important balance of staying healthy, performing well, and being mentally strong in professional sports. As he gets back on the court, everyone pays attention to see how his skills will blend with his teammates’ to help push the Warriors to a winning season. Wiggins isn’t just back from an injury; he’s ready to take on a new part in the Warriors’ quest to be the top team again. There is a buzz about his performance, adding excitement to the NBA season, and every game could be a critical moment for fans and those placing bets.

How the Miami Heat Can Stay Alive for the 8-Seed in Chicago

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With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the Miami Heat travel to Chicago tonight for a pivotal showdown against the Bulls — a game that could define their path in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.

Currently sitting 10th in the standings at 36-43, Miami is locked in a fierce race with the Atlanta Hawks and Chicago Bulls for the “coveted” 8th seed — a position that provides two chances to clinch a playoff spot, rather than the more daunting path of winning two straight elimination games.

With only three regular-season games remaining, tonight’s matchup against the 9th-seeded Bulls (also 36-43) takes on added significance. Chicago holds the tiebreaker advantage after winning the first two games of the season series, making this a must-win for Miami if they hope to leapfrog into the safer 8th spot. A loss tonight would all but cement the Heat in the 9/10 play-in game, forcing them to win two consecutive road contests to keep their season alive.

Despite Miami’s struggles against Chicago this season, Heat fans can take comfort in the team’s recent success when it matters most. Miami has eliminated the Bulls in back-to-back years during the final round of the play-in tournament, proving they can rise to the occasion in win-or-go-home scenarios.

“This is going to be a great night,” said Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, acknowledging the magnitude of the moment. “It’s all about competition, and it’s going to feel like a playoff game, and that’s fun.”

While the Hawks (37-42) remain within reach, the Heat understand the importance of handling business tonight before worrying about outside scenarios. “We know what’s at stake,” emphasized Heat guard Tyler Herro. “And you never know with these last couple of games where we can end up in the standings. I think it would be much harder to win two games in the play-in.”

Keys to Victory for Miami

To secure this vital victory in Chicago and keep their 8th-seed aspirations alive, the Heat must focus on the following:

  1. Lock Down Defensively and Exploit Chicago’s Fatigue
    The Bulls are coming off a tough 135-113 loss to the Cavaliers, where several starters were either rested or nursing injuries. Despite Coach Billy Donovan hinting at a healthier lineup tonight, the quick turnaround could leave Chicago vulnerable. Miami must capitalize by bringing their signature defensive intensity and disrupting Chicago’s offensive flow. Limiting contributions from playmakers like Coby White and Josh Giddey will be crucial.

  2. Bam Adebayo’s Impact on Both Ends
    Bam’s expected return from back spasms is a game-changer. Defensively, he anchors Miami’s rim protection and brings switchability. Offensively, his ability to finish in the paint and facilitate from the high post will be essential in breaking down Chicago’s defense.

  3. Three-Point Efficiency and Spacing
    Miami’s improved shooting — including Duncan Robinson’s recent 21-point performance — must continue. Spacing the floor will open driving lanes for Herro and Jimmy Butler, and timely threes from Robinson, Herro, and even Adebayo will stretch the Bulls’ defense to its limits.

  4. Control the Boards and Limit Second-Chance Points
    Rebounding could swing this game. Miami needs to be aggressive on the glass, limiting second-chance opportunities for the Bulls while creating extra possessions of their own.

  5. Maintain Composure and Execute in Clutch Moments
    With so much at stake and the game likely coming down to the wire, the Heat must stay poised. Smart decision-making, secure ball handling, and knocking down key shots late will determine whether Miami escapes with a critical victory or faces a steeper climb in the play-in.

Something else to point out is the availability of Andrew Wiggins- He’s reportedly “on track to play.”

Remaining Schedules for the Play-In Race

8. Hawks (37-42): @ Nets, @ 76ers, vs Magic
9. Bulls (36-43): vs Heat, vs Wizards, @ 76ers
10. Heat (36-43): @ Bulls, @ Pelicans, vs Wizards

Tonight’s game in Chicago is more than just another regular-season matchup. It’s a direct clash with play-in implications and a chance for the Miami Heat to control their own destiny in the Eastern Conference standings. By focusing on these keys to victory, the Heat can take a significant step toward securing a more favorable play-in seed and keeping their playoff aspirations firmly within reach.

Panthers Forward Jesper Boqvist Nominated For 2024-25 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy

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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The Florida chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) has named Florida Panthers forward Jesper Boqvist its nominee for the 2024-25 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy.

 

Since 1968, the Masterton Trophy has been awarded to the player who best exemplifies perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey.

 

“It’s a huge honor,” Boqvist said of his nomination. “I really appreciate it.”

 

After signing a one-year, league minimum deal with the Florida Panthers last summer, Boqvist was on the bubble to make the defending Stanley Cup champions’ roster entering training camp.

 

Before joining the Panthers, Boqvist spent the 2023-24 season splitting time between Boston Bruins and its AHL affiliate, the Providence Bruins.

 

A few injuries to forwards opened the path for someone to grab a job out of camp. Boqvist, then 25-years-old, seized the opportunity.

 

“I split the year [between the AHL and NHL] last year and going into the off season I didn’t know what was going on (with his future),” Boqvist said. “I think I took a good step mentally and was really ready to come here and go to work.”

 

“I think I’ve taken a couple steps this year — obviously [with] help from the coaching staff and teammates. It’s been a lot of fun so far and we have obviously a lot more work to do.”

 

With the regular season still ongoing, Boqvist has already hit multiple career-highs including goals (12) and games played (74). His 23 points on the season also ties a career-best.

 

Surpassing expectations many had for him entering this season, the Panthers rewarded Boqvist with a two-year, $3M contract extension — marking the first multi-year extension of the young Swede’s career.

 

“Right from day one I feel like everyone was so nice and welcoming,” Boqvist reflected on first joining the Panthers. “It takes some time to get used to everything but I feel like off the ice it was pretty much right away (he felt like Florida was the right choice).”

 

All 32 local PHWA chapters select one player from the team they cover as its nominee for the Masterton. The 32 nominees will be narrowed down to three finalists.

 

Florida’s PHWA chapter has five total members.

Panthers Snap Losing Streak, Defeat Maple Leafs 3-1

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SUNRISE, Fla. — Back home following a winless four-game road trip, the Florida Panthers put forth an impressive performance on Tuesday night to defeat the Atlantic Division leading Toronto Maple Leafs 3-1.

 

Eetu Luostarinen had the game-winning goal 1:06 into the third period to snap the Panthers’ five-game losing streak.

 

“I think that was more like our game,” Luostarinen said. “Everybody was skating, working hard, playing for each other.”

 

Gustav Forsling and Carter Verhaeghe also scored for the Panthers while Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 17 of 18 shots for his 32nd win of the season.

 

Verhaeghe’s goal — which came on an empty net after the Leafs pulled their goalie — snapped a 13-game goal drought for the Panthers winger.

 

As the regular season continues to wind down, the Panthers improved to 45-29-4 with the win — picking up two much needed points as the postseason approaches.

 

“We don’t like losing so obviously it’s a great feeling getting this win,” Forsling said. “I think we’ve been playing good lately, just haven’t got the results we wanted. But [it was] a great effort tonight.”

 

Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov returned to action against the Leafs after missing the past three games with an upper-body injury.

 

On Tuesday, Barkov had 19:25 of ice time and picked up an assist — his 49th of the season — on Verhaeghe’s goal.

 

“Always happy to be back playing with these guys,” Barkov said after his return to the lineup. “Obviously it’s tough to miss games but [I] needed to take care of some things.”

 

The Leafs’ 98 points in 77 games still has them first in the Atlantic Division while the Tampa Bay Lightning are right behind them with 96 points in 77 games. The two will play each other Wednesday in Tampa, while the third place Panthers (94 points in 78 games) will be idle.

 

The Ottawa Senators — who clinched a playoff spot and currently sit in wild-card 1 — are four points behind the Panthers with 90 points in 78 games.

 

PANTHERS NOTES

Sam Reinhart and Gustav Forsling returned to action on Wednesday after not playing Sunday against Detroit (rest day).

 

Sam Bennett (upper-body) did not play against the Leafs and is expected to be out the remainder of the regular season. Panthers head coach Paul Maurice said Wednesday morning that there’s no concern Bennett will miss Game 1 of the postseason. Bennett skated with the team on Wednesday morning.