Alumni Reunion Celebrates Legacy
A wave of nostalgia swept through Houghton this weekend as former hockey players from the 1970s through 2014 converged for a special reunion following the Gremlins' recent state championship. Head coach Micah Stipech, who spearheaded the organization of the event, arranged three exhibition games at the MacInnes Student Ice Arena, providing a familiar rink for the alumni to reconnect.
The gathering was not only a celebration of athletic achievement but also a tribute to the program's founding figure, longtime coach Don Miller. Miller, who launched the hockey program in 1969, was honored on the ice, his legacy underscored by the presence of players who had watched his early practices and later contributed to the team's resurgence.
Honoring a Legacy
For Frank Jackovich, a 1977 alumnus, the reunion evoked memories of earlier gatherings in 2009 and 2012, events that were hampered by scheduling conflicts and lower attendance. This time, the turnout felt more cohesive, he said, reflecting a deeper sense of community among the former teammates.
Raymond Brice, a 2014 graduate, echoed that sentiment, describing the camaraderie as the highlight of the weekend. "It's the shared memories and the bond that keep us coming back," he noted, emphasizing how the sport has forged lasting friendships beyond the rink.
Pat McCarthy, a 1976 alumnus, expressed pride in the program's enduring tradition and the recent championship, noting that the success reflects years of dedication from players, coaches, and the school's supportive environment.
Looking ahead, the Houghton hockey program will begin its 2026‑27 season on November 13, a date that many of the alumni hope to mark with continued on‑ice excellence and off‑ice fellowship.