PHS HOCKEY SALUTE TO SERVICE

 

From its beginning, the Portsmouth High School Hockey Team has had a strong connection to the US military and local first responders.  Many of the team’s volunteers, supporters, and family members of the players have served in the various branches of the military, or with police departments, fire departments, or as part of rescue organizations.  Many of the individuals associated with PHS hockey are in the middle of their careers and continue to serve our nation, state, and local communities.  Others are retired yet maintain strong connections to their service.  Whether they work with the players, directly support the team, are parents, family members, fans or friends of Portsmouth High School hockey, each brings a unique background and experience which benefits the team.

 

Across the years, many Portsmouth hockey players have answered the call to service, as well.  Following their graduations, more than a few have gone on to serve as officers or enlisted members of the different military branches.  Others have pursued careers as police officers, fire fighters, and EMTs in local Rhode Island communities.

 

In 2022 the team established a new tradition to honor all those in the PHS hockey family who have served, or are serving, in the military or as first responders.  In celebration of their contributions and achievements, the event is held annually at a home game at the Abbey.  A pre-game ceremony is conducted, including the introduction of a special honoree, and the team wears military themed uniforms in the game.

 

 

PHS HOCKEY SALUTE TO SERVICE HONOREES

 

2022   Tom Lang

US Navy (retired) -  PHS Hockey Statistician

 

2023    Greg Cunningham

Rhode Island State Police (retired) - PHS Hockey Head Coach

 

2024   Lance Hebert

Air Force veteran and Portsmouth Police Department (retired) Former PHS Hockey goalie coach; current Abbey Zamboni driver

 

2025    Tom Fagan and Mike O’Brien

Both men are Air Force veterans, career firefighters with the Portsmouth Fire Department, founding members of the PHS hockey team, and fathers of PHS hockey’s first second generation players