'It means everything': GVSU Women’s Ice Hockey Club cherishes opportunity to continue playing

STORY BY THOMAS CHAVEZ | PHOTOS BY EMILY RIDDLE | VIDEO BY DARIUS MATHIS

A hockey team stands at the edge of the rink looking onwards.

For 18 years, the GVSU Women’s Ice Hockey Club has extended the playing careers of young athletes transitioning from high school to college. The team members who have played the sport their entire lives said they are grateful for the opportunity.

“It means everything,” said Abbey McCallion, the team’s captain, who is in her final year on the team. “The last four years have been super special in getting to continue to play at a competitive level.”

The team has bonded through their passion for the game, practices and spending time together off the ice. Through it all, the opportunity to continue playing the sport they love is something they do not take for granted.

A hockey player fastens their helmet.
A close-up of a hockey player lacing up their skates.

Several people in hockey gear sit on an ice rink stretching their legs.

Sophomore defensive player, Grace Deacetis, smiles while stretching with teammates at the end of practice on November 20.

Sophomore defensive player, Grace Deacetis, smiles while stretching with teammates at the end of practice on November 20.

Three individuals in hockey gear hug each other on an ice rink.

Senior forward Abbey McCallion celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Eastern Michigan.

Senior forward Abbey McCallion celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against Eastern Michigan.

A close up of a hockey player smiling while adjusting their helmet.

A close-up view of a hand with pink nails touching a goalie helmet.

"They’re with each other, four or five months out of the year. It’s kind of a sisterhood for them."

PJ Rapin, head coach

A hockey player leans with stick in hand while skating in an ice rink.
A hockey goalie catching a puck in their glove.
Three hockey player, two in pink jerseys and one in navy, reach for a hockey puck with their sticks.

Two hockey players sit on a locker room bench looking off to the right.

A close-up of behind a hockey goalie standing in front of a goal.
A group of hockey players sit on a locker room bench.
A hockey team gathers together, raising their sticks up in the air.
A close-up of a hockey goalie holding a puck branded with the letters 'GVSU.'