10/05/2026
⚜️Meet the Team⚜️
There are so many things that happen behind the scenes to help continue the growth of AVH. Our board members work tirelessly to ensure our veterans have a place to call home, and to know the light will always be left on for them. We are proud for you to meet one of those hard working board members, Jared Brinlee(forward/defense) 2️⃣4️⃣…
”I grew up in Slidell, Louisiana, and joined the Air National Guard right after high school in 2003, serving as a jet engine mechanic until 2009. During that time, I participated in the response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Katrina, which was an experience I’ll always remember.
After my military service, I graduated from LSU Law School in 2012 and have been practicing corporate law ever since.
I discovered Acadiana Veterans Hockey after hearing about the team on the Discover Lafayette podcast, and joined in July 2025. Before joining AVH, the only hockey experience I had was a little street hockey as a kid. The other guys on the AVH team mentored me every step of the way, from putting on the gear, to learning hockey rules, and eventually to more advanced skills and techniques.
Playing ice hockey for the first time at 40 years old, I never expected to join a hockey team (or really any team), but it has been even better than I ever could have imagined. I’ve had a great time learning the game, experiencing intense competition again, and becoming part of an incredible group of veterans and teammates.
My biggest supporters throughout all of this are my wife, Rene, and our two daughters, Leila, 11, and Zariah, 4. They’ve been cheering me on from the beginning, and it’s always a great boost to see them in the stands.”
Q&A
1. Pre-game ritual? -“Getting there as late as possible to still get on the ice on time.”
2. Favorite sports team growing up? -“Seattle Mariners, just because of Ken Griffey, Jr.”
3. If you weren't playing hockey what else would you be doing? -“Spending time with my family, watching sports, and reading.”
4. If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive? -“Marquis de Lafayette (what a life he had).”
5. Something most people don't know about you? -“I play guitar and piano.”
