By: Chelsea Dekock

Blades of Glory: The Return of SHS Hockey

As the autumn leaves start to fall and the chill of the wind approaches, hockey fans are preparing for an exhilarating new season. Unlike traditional school teams, players from Springfield High School, Lanphier, Athens, Bloomington and Rochester have joined forces to create a united hockey team. Through this partnership, athletes who might not have otherwise had the chance to play together have developed a sense of camaraderie in addition to achieving success on the ice. This united team will formally hit the ice next Monday and players, coaches and fans alike are buzzing with anticipation.

Once the season begins, there is nothing quite like the thrill of a high school hockey game. The excitement in the air, the sound of skates on ice and the energy of the passionate crowd banging on the glass create an atmosphere that is hard to match. Logan Heimlich, an SHS junior, emphasizes the team’s high morale as they prepare for the opener: “All the guys (and girls) are very excited for Monday and we’re ready to go out and get that big W on opening night. Even with some new faces, the team is still coming together well and we’re all ready to win some games this season.”

In preparation for the upcoming season, players have been diligently training. Wade Snyder, an SHS junior, shares his insights on the team’s tactics: “As we approach our first games, we’re practicing harder, scrimmaging other teams and fine-tuning every detail of our game. We’ve only lost a couple of players these last two seasons and with so many returning, the chemistry between us is through the roof.” This strong foundation is vital as the team looks to make a mark this season.

The start of the season also brings back fierce rivalries that have become essential to the school culture of hockey. Fans can expect heated matchups against schools like Sacred Heart Griffin and Glenwood that frequently ignite school spirit and pride. As teams strive for playoff positions, every game will carry significant weight, intensifying the excitement for players and supporters. Junior Senator, Caitlyn Turner, shares her perspective on the team: “I think the team’s dynamic has changed a lot. My freshman year there was definitely a lot more offensive rhetoric and lower effort during gameplay. This year there’s much more supportive dialogue among the players and I believe that everyone is willing to put in much more effort than before.”

As the final preparations for the opening game begin, be sure to check the schedule and make plans to attend. From nail-biting battles to thrilling goals, our hockey team promises plenty of action in the weeks ahead. Grab your jerseys, rally your friends and get ready to cheer on your local team as they embark on what promises to be an exhilarating season. High school hockey is back and we couldn’t be more ready!

Check Out The Senator’s Hockey Schedule: https://www.lincolnlandhockey.org/team/87173/schedule 

Photo Courtesy of Caitlyn Turner