Beyond the Rink: Varsity Hockey’s European Experience
Over winter break, Eaglebrook’s Varsity Hockey team traveled to Finland and Sweden for an international experience that combined high-level competition, cultural exploration, and meaningful time together as a team. Throughout the trip, students documented their experiences in daily reflections, which are summarized below.
The journey began with a long day of travel, but excitement quickly set the tone. After attending a professional hockey game early in the trip, players had the opportunity to meet athletes and reflect on lessons that went beyond the scoreboard. “The highlight of the day was getting to meet some of the players after the game, where we had the chance to ask questions and get autographs—and hear advice about enjoying every opportunity you get to play," wrote Jake T. '26.
Once settled in Finland, the Eagles wasted little time getting to work. Practices with local coaches and games played under unfamiliar rules challenged the team to adapt quickly. Despite fatigue and illness early on, the players responded with focus and confidence. “By the end of the third, we did exactly what we needed to do and won 9–1, coming back to the hotel feeling confident for the next game,” shared Liam H. ’26.
Not every game ended in a win, but those moments proved just as meaningful. Facing adversity, the team leaned on discipline, teamwork, and resilience. “The guys worked hard without coming home with a win, but we weren’t disappointed—this was a game that showed how much adversity we can handle together,” wrote Cam F. ’26.
Between games, the trip offered unforgettable cultural experiences. The team explored Helsinki, learned about Finnish history, and relaxed together in a traditional sauna before continuing on to Sweden. Through it all, camaraderie remained central. “It was an amazing time in Finland with everyone, and going undefeated made it even better,” shared Nick W. ’26, while Derek K. ’26 added that even challenging moments were made lighter by togetherness: “Morale was restored thanks to Pokémon Go, which somehow made the cold completely irrelevant.”
The New Year was welcomed aboard a ferry to Stockholm, marking a transition into the Swedish portion of the trip. Sightseeing, museum visits, and time in the city gave the team space to connect off the ice. “Most of the fun came from enjoying each other’s company and joking around,” wrote Johnny J. ’26.
Back on the ice, competition intensified. The Eagles faced strong Swedish opponents, learning firsthand the level required to compete internationally. Even in defeat, players found value in the experience. “Even though it was a tough loss, it was a good day overall and one we thoroughly enjoyed,” reflected Lawson P. ’26. That mindset was echoed by Parker S. ’26, who wrote, “You’re either winning, or you’re learning, and that game showed us there’s another level we can reach as a team.”
As the trip came to a close, reflections turned to gratitude and growth. Traveling together, sharing meals, and supporting one another through challenges strengthened the bonds within the group. “In the end, this was more than just a hockey trip...we didn’t just play games, we built friendships and memories that will stay with us for a long time,” wrote Eli M. ’26.
The team returned home with more than international experience and time on the ice. They came back as a closer, more connected group, shaped by shared challenges, new perspectives, and the understanding that the game is ultimately about the people you play it with.
Some of the images for this story were captured by Esther Mathieu, a professional photographer based in Rockport, MA. As a parent of a player on the hockey team, she generously shared her talent to help bring the boys’ experience to life.
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Once settled in Finland, the Eagles wasted little time getting to work. Practices with local coaches and games played under unfamiliar rules challenged the team to adapt quickly. Despite fatigue and illness early on, the players responded with focus and confidence. “By the end of the third, we did exactly what we needed to do and won 9–1, coming back to the hotel feeling confident for the next game,” shared Liam H. ’26.
Not every game ended in a win, but those moments proved just as meaningful. Facing adversity, the team leaned on discipline, teamwork, and resilience. “The guys worked hard without coming home with a win, but we weren’t disappointed—this was a game that showed how much adversity we can handle together,” wrote Cam F. ’26.
Between games, the trip offered unforgettable cultural experiences. The team explored Helsinki, learned about Finnish history, and relaxed together in a traditional sauna before continuing on to Sweden. Through it all, camaraderie remained central. “It was an amazing time in Finland with everyone, and going undefeated made it even better,” shared Nick W. ’26, while Derek K. ’26 added that even challenging moments were made lighter by togetherness: “Morale was restored thanks to Pokémon Go, which somehow made the cold completely irrelevant.”
The New Year was welcomed aboard a ferry to Stockholm, marking a transition into the Swedish portion of the trip. Sightseeing, museum visits, and time in the city gave the team space to connect off the ice. “Most of the fun came from enjoying each other’s company and joking around,” wrote Johnny J. ’26.
Back on the ice, competition intensified. The Eagles faced strong Swedish opponents, learning firsthand the level required to compete internationally. Even in defeat, players found value in the experience. “Even though it was a tough loss, it was a good day overall and one we thoroughly enjoyed,” reflected Lawson P. ’26. That mindset was echoed by Parker S. ’26, who wrote, “You’re either winning, or you’re learning, and that game showed us there’s another level we can reach as a team.”
As the trip came to a close, reflections turned to gratitude and growth. Traveling together, sharing meals, and supporting one another through challenges strengthened the bonds within the group. “In the end, this was more than just a hockey trip...we didn’t just play games, we built friendships and memories that will stay with us for a long time,” wrote Eli M. ’26.
The team returned home with more than international experience and time on the ice. They came back as a closer, more connected group, shaped by shared challenges, new perspectives, and the understanding that the game is ultimately about the people you play it with.
Some of the images for this story were captured by Esther Mathieu, a professional photographer based in Rockport, MA. As a parent of a player on the hockey team, she generously shared her talent to help bring the boys’ experience to life.
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