EC Alum Tim Joustra ’78: Back to Back Stanley Cup Champion!

EC Alum Tim Joustra ’78 with the Stanley Cup, the Prince of Wales Trophy (awarded to the NHL’s Eastern Conference Champion) and the Conn Smythe Trophy (awarded to the playoff’s most valuable player; Andre Vasilevsky, Tampa Bay Lightning goalie)

EC Alumnus Tim Joustra, Class of 1978, recently experienced being a part of the back to back Stanley Cup champion as part of the National Hockey League’s Tampa Bay Lightning. We were curious to see what that was like- here is Tim’s story in in his own words.

God’s Unique Path for Tim- from EC to the NHL

I am a licensed Radiologic Technologist (X-Ray Tech). A few years after graduating from EC in 1978, I enrolled in the Radiolography Program at Passaic County Community College and graduated in 1984. I worked as a radiographer at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Paterson, NJ until February of 1987. It was then that I moved to St. Petersburg, FL and was hired as the Chief Technologist at Bayfront Medical Center. I spent a large portion of my ensuing career as a Director of several Imaging departments; both Hospital and Out Patient Centers.

In 2012, I accepted a position as the Director of Clinical Quality for several Hospital Radiology Department’s within the AdventHealth Medical System here on the West Central coast of Florida. AdventHealth was the official Medical partner for several of the Tampa Bay professional Sports teams. It was at this time that I was asked to spend part of my time as the Radiographer for the National Hockey League’s Tampa Bay Lightning. I have been with them ever since. 

Tim’s Got the Back of the Back-to-Back Champs

I am proud to say that this will be the start of my tenth season with the team. Being part of the medical team for the Lightning has truly been a tremendous experience and winning back to back Stanley Cups is surreal. I could not have imagined the path God laid out for me, but my Christian Education taught me to trust that He, in fact, had a plan for me. It was not always easy to back away from forcing my will on what I perceived my future should be but somehow I was granted enough grace to let go and let God guide me to where He wanted me. 

The Benefits of A Christian Education and Upbringing 

I wish I could convey how truly blessed I am. The seeds sown by my parents who selflessly provided a Christian Education at EC and a Christian upbringing have made my faith strong. My wife Barbara, our children and grandchildren are the source of incredible support and inspiration. My life has been filled with more blessings than I probably deserve. Being part of one of the greatest Hockey teams in the world is just a Stroopwafel on the top of an amazing cup of tea!