Allison Beck, Social Media Director
@abeckcourant
This past July, Seniors Gunnar Granito, Turner Ives, Walker Ker, Jack O’Hare, and Shane Pickering received an email that stated they were being given the opportunity to be NCHS Boys Hockey captains for the 2018-2019 season. They had been selected for this position based on their hard work and dedication to the program.
Being a Hockey captain had been a long-term goal of Shane’s. “I was really excited because it was something I constantly worked towards over the course of my 4 years as a part of the New Canaan hockey program,” Shane said.
Turner reflected on his reaction when the email was sent to him as well. “Being happy is an understatement,” Turner said “It means a lot to me because this has been a goal of mine since I came to the high school my Sophomore year.”
Gunnar, unlike the other seniors, is a returning captain from last season, giving him insight into what it takes to be a leader. “My biggest take away was to lead by example and follow instructions,” Gunnar said. “Showing the guys what they need to be doing and how to do it will help everyone improve.”
With and unusually high number of captains, the five boys create a system of leadership qualities that advance the team on and off the ice. “We all definitely try to lead in our own way and we have a great dynamic,” Turner said. “Walker, Jack and Shane tend to be more vocal while Gunnar and I tend to lead more by example.”
Even though there are many captains, there are also opportunities for every member of the team to show leadership. “Anyone can lead by example,” Walker said. “Being a captain is a great opportunity, but you don’t need a letter on to be a leader and everyone on this team recognizes that.”
The veterans on the team have been working since August to get ready for this time of year. “We have been working out three times a week, had two skates a week and games on the weekend,” Shane said. “We’re really doing everything that we can to be prepared for the season.”
The boys returning to the team didn’t stop practicing when the prior season ended. “Honestly, since we lost the last game last season we have all been constantly grinding.” Turner said. “Our focus is always the next game even when it may seem far away.”
When thinking into the future of the season, all the captains had the same hope for this year: to win the State Championship. “Last time we won states was 1972,” said Jack. “It is always our goal to win again.”
However, another goal that is just as important to the boys is to grow closer to each other as a team. “Everyone is extremely close and the team allows you to make memories you will never forget,” Shane said. “Since it’s my last year on the team,I want to bring everyone closer than ever.”
The captains know that close bonds and a good dynamic are crucial to the their success. “Bonds in hockey are different than in any other sport. The memories that come out of that locker room will be remembered for the rest of your life.” Walker said. “The teams that win are the ones who love being at the rink and in the locker room together because close bonds are what make good teams great.”
