In late January, the Assumption Men’s Ice Hockey team celebrated the program’s centennial anniversary.
Though founded in 1917, it was not until 1977, when Stephen Lindberg ’73 assumed head coaching duties, that the program took off. That team went 11–9, led by junior captain Bobby Benoit ’79, who the following year set Assumption’s single-season scoring record with 63 points (17 goals, 46 assists), while leading the team to an 11–8 record. Those teams started a string of successes, leading to numerous playoff appearances. Benoit was a fixture through it all, becoming an assistant coach for two different stints, as well as attending numerous games each season before his unfortunate passing this past summer.
As part of the 100th-anniversary celebration, more than 50 alumni from different decades returned to the ice for the inaugural Bobby Benoit Alumni Game.
For senior Cam Laughlin ’18, meeting the former players was a night he will remember when his time at Assumption comes to an end this spring. “Their support not only during alumni weekend but throughout the whole year is what makes this program so special,” he said.
Following the alumni contest, the hockey team geared up for a crucial conference matchup against Franklin Pierce University as they competed for a spot in the playoffs. The team also raised money for The Scott Milley Fund, which helps veterans in need; it was named after a local man who was killed in action while serving as a first lieutenant in Afghanistan. Members of Milley’s family dropped a ceremonial puck before the game.
