Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink
When it comes to ice hockey in Michigan, Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink is a name that cannot be ignored. This historic rink has been the home of countless championship teams and skilled players who have gone on to achieve success both on and off the ice. This article will take an in-depth look at the storied history of the Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink, its role in the development of ice hockey in Michigan, and what makes it such a special place for players and fans alike.
A Brief History of Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink
The Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink first opened its doors in 1962, serving as the home of the St Mary's Prep hockey team. Over the years, the rink has been renovated and expanded to keep up with the growing demand for ice time in Michigan. Today, it boasts two full-sized ice rinks, one of which is Olympic-sized, and various amenities such as a pro shop and a concessions area.
Throughout its history, Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink has been the site of countless important games and events. It has hosted numerous Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) state championship games, as well as college and professional matches. In 1980, the rink was even used as a training facility for the United States Olympic hockey team, which would famously go on to win the gold medal that year.
But perhaps the most important aspect of the Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink is the role it has played in the development of ice hockey in Michigan. The rink has been instrumental in the growth of youth hockey in the state, providing a place for young players to learn the game and hone their skills. It has also served as a recruiting ground for college and professional teams, with many talented players getting their start at Orchard Lake St Mary's.
The Legacy of Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink
The impact of Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink on the sport of ice hockey cannot be overstated. Over the years, the rink has produced countless championship teams and skilled players who have gone on to achieve success both on and off the ice.
One of the most notable achievements of Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink was the St Mary's Prep team's 2009 Division 1 state championship. The team, which was coached by Brian Klanow, went undefeated throughout the 2008-2009 season and capped it off with a 3-0 win over Detroit Catholic Central in the state championship game. The victory was the first in St Mary's Prep hockey history and cemented the team's place as one of the best in Michigan high school hockey.
But it's not just about the championships won at Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink. The rink has also produced numerous NHL players over the years, including Mike Modano, who played for the Detroit Little Caesars amateur team that called the rink home, and current NHL players Kyle Connor and Zach Werenski, who both played for the HoneyBaked youth hockey program that practiced and played games at the rink.
What Makes Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink Special?
So what is it about Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink that makes it such a special place for players and fans alike?
For starters, there's the history. The rink has been a part of the Michigan hockey community for nearly 60 years, and its walls are adorned with photos and memorabilia from some of the biggest games and players in state history. It's impossible to walk through the rink without feeling a sense of reverence for the sport and the people who have helped make it great.
But more than that, Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink is a place where the love of the game is palpable. From the young players who lace up their skates for the first time to the seasoned veterans who still hit the ice every week, everyone who steps inside the rink is united by a common passion. It's a place where a love of hockey is fostered and celebrated, and where players and fans alike can come together to share in that joy.
Conclusion
Orchard Lake St Mary's Hockey Rink is more than just a rink. It's a cornerstone of the Michigan hockey community, a place where champions are made and memories are created. Whether you're a player, a fan, or just someone who appreciates the sport, there's something special about stepping inside the rink and feeling the energy of the game.
