HPHS Hockey Senior Night: One to Remember
In what was a wild Saturday night for the windy city, Highland Park had a special night of their own. The Highland Park Giants hosted their senior night hockey game at Centennial Ice Arena against Glenbrook South that evening. Despite there only being two seniors, defensemen Andrew Schneiderman and Brody Siegel, representing the Giants on the ice this year, it was still a night filled with a mix of emotion and extreme gratitude.
In the aftermath of the pictures, hugs, and celebrations, defenseman Andrew Schneiderman spoke on what matters for him as a senior.
“I take a lot of pride in being someone my teammates can rely on both on and off the ice,” Schneiderman said. “As a senior, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about wearing a letter, it’s about setting the standard through effort, attitude, and accountability. I’m proud to help create a positive team culture and to support the younger players the same way older teammates once supported me.”
His fellow defenseman, Brody Siegel, spoke on the same matter as well.
“I take a lot of pride being a leader on the team, although I don’t have a letter on my jersey,” Siegel said. “I still feel close and connected to all the players on my team.”
This really showed when each of the seniors were called out for their pictures and walked out, where their teammates cheered them on loudly and coaches spoke fondly of each of them. Sophomore forward Tyler Lansky spoke to the impact the seniors maintain, even off the ice.
“The seniors are always hyping us up before games and giving us for whoever our opponent is,” Lansky said.
As far as the game itself, it was a tough night for the Giants who lost 5-3. In spite of this, Schneiderman and Siegel reflected on their time as a senior, and as a hockey player. Showing gratitude for all of the work they’ve put in over the years, and also sharing a lesson this process taught him.
“Honestly it’s pretty emotional, “ Schneiderman said. “Thinking about all the long practices, tough losses, and sacrifices makes this night feel even more meaningful. It’s a reminder that every challenge and every moment of hard work was worth it and I’m grateful to be able to share this experience with my teammates, coaches, and family.”
On a similar note, Siegel reflected on the evening.
“It’s sad,” Siegel said. “Having my own senior night has really made me realize how little time I have left. Being very close with Andrew Schneiderman, we have gotten to experience a lot together.”
It was an overall emotional night for the Giant leaders, as Schneiderman and Siegel continue to make a lasting mark in their careers through the rest of their senior season.