Story submitted by Gary Friesen, Fort Erie International Hockey Academy
For most young hockey players, the dream of making it to the NHL is fuelled by long hours on the ice, intense training, and unwavering dedication. For 16-year-old Jean-Theo Mundele, known as JT Mundele, that dedication has extended far beyond the rink, as he’s found a unique way to inspire others by sharing his journey online.
A forward with the East U17 Fort Erie International Academy (FEIA) Falcons, JT began playing hockey at just three years old. Since then, he’s poured his energy into improving his game and developing his skills. But JT’s journey isn’t just about his on-ice performance — it’s about the impact he’s having off the ice as well.
Building a Following Through Authenticity
JT’s social media presence began as a simple way to document his hockey journey. By sharing his progress on TikTok and Instagram, he hoped to inspire other young athletes while gaining exposure for himself. What started as a personal project quickly turned into something much bigger.
“I hit 10,000 followers in just 12 days,” JT recalls. “That’s when I realized people were really interested in my journey. The real moment it clicked for me was when other players started messaging me, saying my content motivated them to work harder.”
JT’s success stems from his focus on relatable, meaningful content. He regularly posts training videos, game highlights, and insights into his progression as a player. His ability to connect with other athletes — by sharing the grind behind the glamour — has been key to his growing influence.
“I think about what I would’ve wanted to see as a young player,” says JT. “That’s how I come up with ideas.”
The Turning Point
The real turning point came when JT committed to posting videos every day. By staying consistent and focusing on valuable content, his platform exploded in popularity. One of his most memorable viral moments came when he shared a behind-the-scenes look at his training routine — a post that resonated with aspiring athletes eager to see the hard work that drives success.
Despite his social media fame, JT keeps everything authentic and personal. He handles all his own filming, editing, and posting to ensure his content reflects his real-life journey.
Balancing Hockey and Social Media
Managing hockey, school, and a thriving social media presence isn’t easy. JT spends significant time creating content but has learned to streamline the process by capturing footage during workouts and games, then editing later.
“There’s definitely some pressure to keep up with expectations,” JT admits. “When we play other teams, I sometimes get chirped for being a ‘social media guy.’ But at the end of the day, I’m a hockey player first. My focus is on performing on the ice.”
Despite the occasional chirps, JT’s online presence has also earned him plenty of positive attention. Opposing players often approach him before or after games asking for pictures or autographs — a sign of his growing influence both on and off the ice. While social media has helped JT connect with scouts, coaches, and other athletes, he emphasizes that his commitment to hockey remains his top priority.
Inspiring Others
One of the most memorable moments of JT’s journey so far came when a younger player approached him and shared how his videos had motivated him to train harder. “Knowing I can inspire other players like that is one of the best parts of this journey,” says JT.
Despite his growing fame, JT stays grounded by ignoring negative comments and focusing on his goals. “Haters will always be there,” he says, “but I use criticism as motivation to keep proving myself.”
Looking Ahead
While JT sees social media as a tool that can open doors, his primary focus is still hockey. His next big goal is to earn a spot in NCAA Division I hockey, and he’s committed to putting in the work to get there.
“I stay disciplined by sticking to a structured routine,” JT explains. “Hockey comes first, but I make time for content creation and my personal life. It’s all about balance.”
JT’s journey is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about talent — it’s about hard work, consistency, and a willingness to share your story. Whether on the ice or online, Jean-Theo Mundele continues to inspire young athletes with his determination, authenticity, and positive influence.
