For different people, there are various aspects that make time special, but one thing is common throughout most events in people’s lives, and it is the impact of having the support of family. At Northwood, it takes a community to make the experience work, whether deciding to move away from home then, packing the child’s things, and moving them out for a fresh start. Our families influence development, whether they are with you often or not. That is why their presence in significant times is so prominent and can be the most memorable. Last weekend, Northwood hosted the 45th annual tournament, where various teams came to compete across three different divisions. Along with this, families upon families arrived in beautiful Lake Placid to watch their sons and daughters and grandsons and granddaughters play. And not just that, they also got to attend the senior nights for their child’s given team. As many seniors would agree, having parents and family members there made the difference in making it the most memorable night.
Eliza Quackenbush ’25 and her family at the Northwood Invitational Hockey Tournament last month. Photo provided.
When taking the time to ask two seniors what their perspectives were, there were very similar responses. Gracie Hurlbut, ‘25, a three-year senior, states, “It was a milestone moment for me and reminded me of who helped me get to where I am today. Having them there was a highlight to an already meaningful and exciting weekend.” Another three-year senior, Hilary Wilkin, ’25, stated, “Having my parents travel such a long way to watch me play at one of our last home weekends was something I will never live down. They have put in so much time and effort for me and my development over the past three years, and I can not thank them enough. Needless to say, having them there was extremely meaningful.” These opinions highlight an overall team morale theme over the weekend. Joy spread throughout the bench during games, and the energy radiated throughout the arena. This energy and hard work led the girls’ hockey team to yet another championship.
There are many people to thank when it comes to putting weekends like this together, and no one more than our relatives. Thank you for the support; from the bottom of everyone’s heart, nothing means more than family.
