Once a year, the school comes together in the Chapel to celebrate the holiday season with Lessons & Carols. Students, teachers, and families gather to share this holiday tradition and sing festive hymns. But before we could do that, the boys’ varsity hockey team had a challenge to face.
The day of Lessons & Carols also marks the start of the annual Groton-Lawrence Holiday Hockey Tournament. The past few years of the tournament had not been our best, but the team was determined to change the story this year. While the rest of the students spent their day with their minds on the festivities, our minds were focused on the ice. As soon as classes were over, we all rushed down to the rink, itching to get out of our suits and ties and into our gear. Finally, the puck dropped, and the tournament was underway. We were the only game on campus, so our fans came out to cheer us on. There’s nothing better than a high school hockey atmosphere. After three periods, we came out with a decisive 3-1 victory. The first game of the tournament was ours. The team was so fired up that we couldn’t even wait for the beginning of Lessons & Carols to start the festivities. We celebrated in the locker room with a spontaneous post-win hymn, a sloppy yet enthusiastic rendition of Amazing Grace. Following the win, the team enjoyed a meal together in the Athletic Center. Finally, we made our way to the chapel for the start of Lessons & Carols. We had the pleasure of celebrating a win and celebrating our holiday traditions on the same day. Listening to the whole school sing together reminded me of how connected we all are on the Circle. It also reminded me that hockey players don’t always make great singers. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the unique time spent with my friends.