Andrews On Ice

Cardinals Hockey promotes teamwork, athleticism

(Photo by Darren Heslop)

For many students, athletics play a big part in their schooling. Some even choose a college based on the university's athletics program. Andrews University has both men’s and women’s basketball and soccer teams, but one team that not many know about is Cardinals Hockey, which plays games in the Senior Hockey League held at Ice Box Skating Arena in South Bend, Indiana.

Cardinals Hockey started out small, playing at Howard Park Ice Rink in St. Joseph, Michigan. Four years ago, they were able to move up and start playing at the senior level. The senior level league consists of roughly 20 teams from the region who get together for a couple hours once or twice a week for a little friendly competition. The Cardinals bring all they have to the ice and have fun in the process.

So what does the Andrews’ hockey team look like? Although Cardinals Hockey is comprised mostly of students, it’s not unusual to see University professors and alumni out on the ice, too.

“Hockey is a sport I began to follow only a few years ago,” says pre-dentistry student Rayford Alva, who played for the team last year. “It’s incredibly fun to watch and play. I encourage anyone at Andrews that has any experience to strongly consider playing on the team this year.”

Every February, the student body gets a chance to see the team in action. In an event put on by the Division of Student Life and the Office of Alumni Services, the Cardinals get a chance to take on alumni in the annual students vs. alumni hockey game. With cookies, hot drinks and team spirit, this event is a favorite for a lot of students. faculty and staff alike. After the game, all the fans in the stands are invited to take to the ice for some free skating, courtesy of the Andrews Alumni Association.

“I really enjoyed the free skate after the game,” says Xia Rehmat, senior education major. “I went with a group of friends, and we stayed until it closed. It was really fun because a lot of people were there, and I got to see some people that I hadn't seen in a while.”

As news of the hockey team makes its way around campus, the team hopes it’s only a matter of time before they grow.

“There’s a lot to be learned by being on a school team,” says Justin Neu, 2013 MBA alumnus of Andrews University and current hockey team member. “Playing sports is more than winning or losing, it’s about being a part of a team that works together to attain a goal. Teamwork is mandatory—no one person can play all the positions. You need your teammates to stay with you and be by your side play-by-play. It’s an experience anyone can benefit from.”

For more information on how to be a part of Cardinals Hockey, email Justin at neu@andrews.edu.