Ice, Spirit, and Tradition: Showcase Hockey
For most of January, the Brentwood campus has been graced with bluebird days, with the sun brightly shining and crisp winter days. The student body has settled back into the Brentwood rhythm after our December break, adjusting to the fast-paced daily routines, and academic workloads. As well, an undeniable buzz of excitement lingers in the air. For many, this time of year brings joy and anticipation, as it marks the return of one of Brentwood’s most beloved and renowned events: Showcase Hockey.
Arguably one of the biggest events on the school calendar, Showcase Hockey embodies the spirit of our community as the student body piles onto buses and heads up to the Kerry Park Arena to cheer on our hockey teams as they face off against our rival, Shawnigan.
This year was no exception. The atmosphere inside the arena was electric as hundreds of Brentwood and Shawnigan students filled the stands, their cheers and cries echoed through the building as they rallied behind their teams. “The energy was unmistakable – a mix of intensity and excitement, with every shot, save, and check sending waves of emotion through the crowd,” said Brynn W, Mackenzie ‘25.
The Brentwood Girl’s Hockey program has experienced not only remarkable growth, but also success in the past few years. What began as a few girls has flourished into a thriving collection, with over 60 girls wearing the Brentwood colours this year. From the first puck drop to the final buzzer, the team played with determination and an unyielding drive to bring home a victory.
All of their hard work was on display as the girls delivered a dominant performance, securing a 7-1 victory over Shawnigan. “I am so proud of our hockey girls. From the girls who have never played before to those who have laced up for years. From Grade 8s to Grade 12s. Each has practiced hard and played harder to improve their skills. We’re growing girls’ hockey and the sky's the limit!” stated the Head Coach, Mr Hacker Teper.
The boys' team, too, hit the ice with grit: despite losing several key players to graduation last spring, they refused to let that absence define them. Time and time again, our boys’ hockey team has proven its resilience and its ability to rise to the occasion, and this year was no different. It was an intense showdown that kept the crowd on edge as the boys emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. Reflecting on their triumph, Head Prefect and Hockey Captain Matson W, Privett ‘25 remarked, “The boys have been hard at work on the ice and in the classroom, and Saturday’s night Showcase win was a great way to reward the guys for all their dedication.”
As the final whistle blew and the teams shook hands, one thing became vividly clear: Showcase Hockey is more than a tradition – it’s a shared experience that unites us all. I would like to extend a thank you to Shawnigan, to the players and coaches for their tireless efforts, and to the fans who turned the night into an unforgettable experience.
Pearl N, Hope ‘25