Friendships soar among Eisenhower Eagles

A story of friendships being formed over ice hockey is melting hearts at Eisenhower High School.

The Eisenhower hockey team has generated friendships and a fan base among special needs students at the school as it pursues a state championship.

“The Ike hockey team is made up of an amazing group of young men,” said LCCE teacher Kristin Oprita. “I feel incredibly blessed and fortunate to be able to work with these students and put them in contact with my group of students with special needs.”

Recently, the groups sat down over a pizza lunch to get to know each other prior to a night hockey game.

The friendships began when the team named special needs student Ethan Williams an honorary captain this year. Players had struck up a friendship with Williams during lunch.

“These boys go out of their way to make our students feel accepted and they have created bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime,” Oprita said. “This luncheon brought tears to our eyes as we watched them interact and enjoy each other’s company.”

Oprita and teaching partner Tarrah Barry organized an outing for the students that evening to join other Eisenhower hockey fans to cheer on the team.

LCCE students visited the team in the locker room for a pre-game pep talk and tour.

Ranked one of the state’s best teams, the Eisenhower hockey team has already captured the 2014-15 MAC Red Championship

Its next game is Saturday, January 31 at 8:30 p.m. vs Rochester United at Rochester Onyx.