Bergen Catholic Senior Hockey Player Skating Toward Success

Passion is important for anyone to have to succeed in whatever it is that they are doing. Bergen Catholic senior Adam Apidopolous does not lack that kind of passion on the ice.

Adam, who plays the center position has basically grown up with the sport, which helps explain his success playing for the Crusaders and his travel team, the New Jersey Hitmen.

“Hockey has been my passion for as long as I can remember,” said Apidopolous. “It has been a part of my life and it’s something I love doing.” “It's a huge commitment and it's something that I want to continue to do and hopefully play college hockey.”

This type of heart and desire is essential to playing any sport and it is recognized by Bergen Catholic head coach Timothy Clifton.

 “He always works hard whether it’s practice or a game where we are down by 10 goals,” said Clifton. “Over the two years I have coached Adam, his skill set and mindset has allowed him to really step up his level of play.”

The Crusaders are currently 7-11 but are looking to make some noise in the postseason. Senior leadership will be an integral part of the postseason push.

 “From the first day of tryouts I knew that he would be a team leader on and off the ice,” said Clifton. “He does whatever is asked of him and the younger players really look up to him.”

Adam has had a great season thus far scoring 30 goals and having a game earlier in the season against Ramsey where he scored four goals and recorded four assists. During his high school career Adam has played in the nationals twice and made it to the finals of those once.

 During all this success, Adam has thoroughly enjoyed playing for Bergen Catholic and for coach Clifton.

“Playing hockey at Bergen Catholic has been great,” said Apidopolous. “I have gotten the experience of playing almost 4 years on varsity.” “The coaches, Coach Dan May, Mark Lotito, and current coach Tim Clifton have been great to me.” “I have gotten the privilege of playing in the Gordon division which has been great hockey.”

“Playing under coach Clifton has been great,” said Apidopolous. “He is a great teacher and a coach.” He has a great knowledge of the game and has taught me a lot.” “He has a lot of confidence in me and I respect and listen to everything he says.”

 The Gordon Cup and State Playoffs are what lie ahead for Adam and the rest of the Crusaders.

 When Adam is not on the ice he enjoys hanging out with friends, fishing, and playing golf. Even though Adam breathes hockey, he does enjoy a trip to the beach now and then as well.