Hockey: a FUNdamental part of the Culver Experience
BY MIKEL ALVIS
Culver Academies boasts an impressive number and variety of school sports, however one sport which plays a larger role in the lives of both the students and the Culver community as a whole is hockey. The hockey program at Culver has one girls team and four boys teams, drawing a huge portion of the student population.
The students who play for these teams dedicate an enormous portion of their non-academic time to this sport. These student-athletes have committed to continue playing hockey in college for a wide array of Division I schools, as well as Division II and III. There is an intensity that surrounds the statement “I play hockey at Culver.” Students say those five words with confidence, trust, and memories of their coaches, family, and teammates who have helped them get to the point that they currently are.
The environment at Culver hockey games truly is a fundamental part of the experience when visiting Culver. Smiles of students and family as they watch their friends and children on the ice, the voices and shouts ebbing and flowing. Posters against the wall to serve as a last minute reminder that a number is more than just a detail on a shirt, but rather a characteristic of an individual themselves.
The Henderson Ice Arena has a large seating area with a separated student section and visitors section, so while there will be a large community out supporting there will always be room for more! It is an incredibly family friendly environment, with the staff and faculty of the school itself often bringing their kids too.
Above all else, it is also free of charge to go to the games! This is just yet another testament to the fact that the Culver games are advocating for a truly tight knit community. They are looking to provide a fun experience for visiting teams, their own staff and faculty, students, and anyone else who wants to drop by. There are few things people in Culver look forward to more than seeing new faces at a game or around town!
Culver Academies also does a fantastic job of linking their events to the overarching theme of teaching foundational character qualities into their students. So, the concession stand at all hockey games are student run, and all proceeds go to the Leadership Committee for Africa, which is an Academy club to help end the AIDS epidemic.
If you are looking to have more of a sit-down meal with the family, or a more substantial meal there are many options in town. Walking through the downtown of Culver brings a sense of safety and community that is not seen very many other places in this world. Smiles from strangers as you walk down the street, and many options for food. From pizza and ice cream to salads and seafood, the town of Culver has options for everyone. You can also stop by any of the shops along Main Street and surrounding areas on the way to and from dinner. With clothes and jewelry followed by knick-knacks and art you didn’t know you needed, what more could you ask for?!
Hockey games at Culver are not just an optional outing, but instead a part of the foundation of the Academy, and also a large part of the community as a whole. So, when looking for a fun outing, whether it be to just drop by for a couple of minutes, or stay for a whole game, the rink is one of the most exciting places to be! Hope to see you there:)
