2014 - 2015

 

Coppaway

 

 

 

    As the saying goes, tradition is not letting those down who came before you. Each and every day, the current members of the Hilton Cadets Varsity Ice Hockey Program strive to aspire to the standards and expectations established by those who have come before us; our esteemed Alumni. The Hilton Cadets Ice Hockey program has always stood for a standard of excellence and character throughout the Hilton community and Section V athletics. These standards were built upon the foundation of hard work, determination, and a strong sense of family that was initiated by the players who now call themselves Hilton Hockey Alumni, and this tradition still holds true today. Without question, the camaraderie, support, and determination from the Alumni of the Hilton Hockey program has established this program as one of the most storied programs in Hilton Athletics history, as well as Section V history.

With that being said, the current members of the Hilton Hockey team and their coaches would like to extend their gratitude to those who set the example for us to follow, and encourage us to work as hard as possible each and every day to honor those who came before us. Without the passion and fortitude that the Alumni of this program have established, we would not have the opportunities that we have today.

    Last season, in recognition of the individuals who have done so much for founding and maintaining this program, the Legends of Hilton Hockey was established to honor those who have meant so much to this great program. Last year, the inaugural induction class included the founding coaches of this program, Tom Dowd, Bruce Klingler, and Frank Golisano, as well as the winningest coach and legend, John Farnham. This year, the Hilton Hockey program would like to honor former player, #17 Rob Coppaway and the Coppaway Family with induction to the Legends of Hilton Hockey.

    Robby Coppaway was a four year Varsity player for the Cadets. Everyone who ever came in contact with Robby would always walk away with a smile, because that was the type of individual that he was; he genuinely cared about people. A competitor on and off the ice, Robby was at his best when he was around people. He cared deeply for others, especially his family. Rob had a great career at Hilton, and his work ethic in games and practices, love of the game, and his positive attitude are the qualities that defined his personality. In December of 1999, Robby tragically passed away, but his spirit and passion has lived on in how the past and current players of this program strive to encompass the qualities that Robby had; dedication, passion, and character. His is missed, but he will never be forgotten.

When you are looking for the first family of Hilton Hockey and what this program stands for, it begins and ends with the Coppaway Family. Sheila and Blaine Coppaway and their extended family have supported Hilton Hockey with their commitment to the annual Alumni Game and Open Skate in Robby’s honor. Their involvement in the scholarships given each year to a Senior Player and Senior Student Spectator are the most honored awards given by the Hilton Hockey Program, and signify the character, work ethic, and dedication that the Coppaway extended family encompass.

     It is with heartfelt sentiment that the Hilton Cadets Ice Hockey Program say thank you to these Legends of Hilton Cadets Ice Hockey, Robby Coppaway and the Coppaway family. Without the efforts of all of you, we would not be the program we are today! Thank you all for your contributions to the Hilton Cadets Varsity Ice Hockey Program.