St. Thomas Aquinas High School

#7 Jordan Sundin

Words from the coaches:

Jordan brings fire, heart, and determination to everything she does. She plays with passion and wears her heart on her sleeve. Her feisty energy keeps us competitive, and keeps her coaches on their toes. It's been such an honor to watch her grow.. not just as a player, but as a strong, confident young woman. We are proud of you and will miss you, Jord!

Words from Jordan:

Jordan Sundin, also known as Jord, Jordo or Sundin. I am a grade 12 student who has been on the Saints hockey team for the past four years. I’ve been playing hockey ever since I was 4 years old, but I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for my amazing skating teacher, Debbie Novak. And my favourite coaches, Pat Kipling and my dad, who taught me the skills on the ice and what it really means to be a team player.  

It honestly doesn’t feel real that this was my last season ever from being on house league teams, rep teams, boys teams and then Saints hockey - I will forever cherish every moment. 

Thank you, coaches, for your time, for pushing me, your patience, your encouragement, and so much more. 

But there’s one coach who truly made an impact on my game, Jessica - you never failed to show up for me, check up on me, put a smile on my face when life got hard, have my back, support me, and for some reason always knew how to deal with my BS. I wouldn’t have made it through high school hockey without you, thank you. 

To all my teammates, past and present, you guys truly became my second family.  

My advice to incoming players is to take every shift like it’s your last and enjoy every moment because it sure flies by. 

My favourite memory from Saint Thomas Aquinas hockey was attending OFFSA in my grade 10 year it was the most incredible experience, when I couldn’t stop crying when we won playoffs, they decided to put a picture of me balling in the yearbook, thanks. But I have 1000-plus memories being on this team that I will forever hold in my heart. 

Thank you to the refs for their time, and for some reason always wanting me in the box.

To my entire family for showing up to every home game. Especially my sister and her kids for being the loudest cheerleaders. 

But there are two individuals whom I can’t thank enough, Mom and Dad. Dad, thank you. None of this would’ve been possible without you. I’m so beyond grateful. I love you guys. 

Ever since I was little, I had a passion for working with kids, and I hope to pursue those dreams in the future. I plan to attend college in the fall. 

Wearing this jersey for the last four years has been an honour, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. 

Thank you, everyone. 

Number 7 signing out.

# 18 Jaylynn Derouard

From the Coaches:

Jaylynn brings dedication and determination to our team every single day. Her adaptability on the ice makes her someone we can always rely on, no matter the situation. She quietly puts in the work, constantly pushing herself to improve and always striving to better her game. We’ve been lucky to watch her develop into the player she is today. We are proud of you and will miss you, Jay!

Jaylynn’s words:

I'm Jaylynn, but most people call me Jay or JJ when I'm on the ice. I have been playing hockey since I was around 6 years old, and for the last 4 years, I have proudly represented the Saint Thomas Aquinas Saints as number 18. 

There are so many amazing memories I have made over these last 4 years of playing Saints hockey. One of my best memories I have has to be when we went to OFSAA in my grade 10 year on the team. It was such a fun experience. Getting to play against really good teams, staying in the hotel, and travelling there was lots of fun. Some of the small things I loved about playing on this hockey team were the change-room jokes no one else will ever understand and the long bus rides when half the team was yelling and singing so loudly while the other half was sleeping. 

I have made so many friends while playing on this hockey team. Some of them have already graduated, and others have just started their Saints careers. I am very grateful for everyone I have met along the way. 

I want to thank three coaches who have made a huge impact on my hockey game, even though they do not coach me anymore, they are still always at the rink giving me tips and tricks whenever I see them. These coaches are Kevin Muise, Gary Gate, and, most importantly, Pat Kipling. These three coaches taught me that it's okay to lose, as long as you work hard, you can still have fun. If I have a bad shift, I just need to shake it off, go out and work even harder on the next one, and a positive attitude goes a long way. 

I would also like to thank my parents for driving me to hockey for so many years, supporting me while I play and encouraging me to keep trying even when things are tough. I would not have been able to make it this far in my hockey career without them. 

In the future, I plan to go to school for aircraft mechanics as well as get my pilot's licence. But beyond a career, I plan to strive to be like a certain individual who we lost too young. Jonny Halley was practically like a brother to me. I have known him and his family for as long as I can remember. Growing up, he was the kind of person you called when you’re in trouble and don’t want to call your parents just yet. Jonny had a way of making everyone around him feel seen, heard, and welcome. He didn’t care who you are or if he knew you, he always made you smile. He was the kind of guy who danced and sang without any music, said something really dumb just to put a smile on your face, and he was proof that chaos can still be lovable. His confidence was amazing. He was always walking in like he owned the place. Jonny was usually wrong, but said things so confidently you thought he was right. He was definitely the kind of guy who asked for forgiveness instead of permission. Jonny did some crazy things growing up. He knew how to do anything and everything and always knew how to “bring the stupid out” in everyone. He knew exactly what to say to push your buttons and make you go along with his dumb plans. Jonny Halley was one of the people I looked up to most, and I will continue to do so forever. 

To end this little spiel, I would like to thank Sean, Dave and Jess for putting up with me all of these years. It has been an honour to wear a Saints jersey and be a part of this team. Thank You. 

#20 Nolan Serino

Words from the coaches:

Nolan Serino brought tremendous value to the Saints organization over three strong seasons, improving each year and becoming a trusted and versatile presence in every situation. Nolan consistently delivered whether he was relied upon in a shutdown role or contributing offensively. As a key penalty killer and an important part of the team’s offensive success, Nolan proved he could be effective wherever he was needed. His versatility, work ethic, and speed will truly be missed.

Words from Nolan:

Hi, my name is Nolan, also known as Serino.

Next year, I plan on attending the University of Manitoba to become a Mechanical Engineer.

My favourite memories with the Saints are the bus rides and the hockey tournaments with the boys.

One thing I would tell a future Saint is to have as much fun as you can and always do your best, because it all goes by in the blink of an eye.

#4 Samantha Neil

Words from the coaches:

Sammy brings dedication and grit to our team every single day. She may be a quiet leader, but her actions speak louder than words. Through her hard work, she sets the tone and leads by example in everything she does. And while she might not always say much… When she does, it’s usually with some pretty colorful language that keeps us laughing. We are proud of you and will miss you, Sam!

Words from Sammy:

I’m Samantha, everyone calls me Sammy, or Sam. I started playing hockey when I was 5. Watching my sisters throughout their hockey career with the Saints team made me work just as hard to get to be a part of that team when I was older. Realizing how much I wanted to be better than my sisters, always gonna keep the competition and jokes with my sisters. Montana coached for a year, always joked that she was better, but little did she know that year was a big year.

When I first joined the Saints, I was just a kid who loved the game and didn’t really understand what it meant to be a part of something so big and important. Now standing here as a senior, it’s hard to believe this is really the end. Looking back, hockey didn’t just give me memories; it shaped the person I am today. It taught me how to handle pressure, how to work through setbacks, and how to grow alongside people who pushed me to be better every single day. 

One of my favourite memories will always be going to OFSAA. Not everyone gets the chance to experience something like that, and it showed me what hard work and teamwork truly mean. Wearing that jersey number 4 and representing our school was an honour I’ll never forget. But hockey was never just about the big moments. It was the laughs, the smiles, and singing on those long bus rides, and the laughs in the dressing room that made everything worth it. Those memories are the ones that are hardest to let go of.

My teammates became more than just teammates; they became family. I’m gonna miss everyone, even my daughters - well, I always think of them as my daughters, they showed me how much friendship and being there, even when sometimes they were a pain. Still made me laugh and smile. Gonna miss you guys. We went through a lot of wins that brought us together and losses that made us stronger and better as a whole. I’ll miss walking into the rink knowing I was surrounded by people who had my back no matter what. I want to thank one coach I’ve had in the past who really made me have fun in the game, no matter what the score was. So thank you, Gary Gate, for making me push and love the game even when we just had our inside jokes on the bench. I want to also thank Jess, Sean and Dave for believing in me and helping me grow both on and off the ice, even when I didn’t always see it myself. Sean, you always knew I could do better, and I’m so glad you pushed me to my limits. And to my parents, Troy and Roxanne, thank you for every early morning, late nights, long bus rides, and for always being there when I needed you. My dad always gives me words of encouragement. Maybe not the cleanest of words, but I knew what he meant. Your support will always be with me, and I wouldn’t be here without you.

As high school comes to an end, it’s emotional knowing this chapter is closing. Next year, I plan on going to school for Electrical, and while hockey won’t look the same anymore, the lessons it taught me will stay with me forever. To the players that are coming up, my advice is simple. Don’t take a single moment for granted. Enjoy the practices, the bus rides, and the time with your teammates, because one day you’ll look up and realize it’s over faster than you expected. One day, you're in grade 9 trying out for the team, and then the next, you're standing here as a senior.  I’m incredibly proud to have worn this jersey for the past four years. Hockey will always be a part of me, and the Saints will always feel like home. 

Number 4 signing out

#4 Fenton McEwen

Words from the coaches:

Fenton McEwen is a true leader both on and off the ice, setting the tone with his unmatched work ethic and competitive drive. He consistently elevates the team through his scoring ability and relentless pursuit of excellence. Fenton’s commitment to high standards pushes those around him to rise to the occasion. While a player of his calibre is impossible to replace, the culture and accountability he helped build will continue to shape this team for years to come.

Words from Fenton:

I’m Fenton, also known as Fent or Feny.

Next year and in the future, I plan to attend university for kinesiology.

My favourite memory from being a Saint has been going to tournaments and hanging out with all the boys at the hotel.

Some advice I would give to upcoming players is to enjoy and appreciate all the fun you have in the moment and cherish every memory, because it all goes by faster than you think.

#11 Jasper Hendy

Words from the coaches:

Jasper Hendy embodies a selfless, do-whatever-it-takes player whose positive attitude strengthens our entire group. Well-liked and respected by all his teammates, he plays a key role in bringing the locker room together while stepping up to big challenges to shut down opponents when called upon. No matter the situation, Jasper gives his full effort and finds ways to positively impact the team to achieve success. His consistent determination, upbeat spirit, and coachable nature have made him an absolute pleasure to work with.

Words from Jasper:

Hi, I’m Jasper, also known as Cheese.

In the future, I plan on skiing in the mountains and working toward earning my pilot’s license.

One of my favourite memories as a Saint has been spending time with the boys and travelling to tournaments together.

To future Saints, my advice is simple: have fun, enjoy every moment, and make the most of your time here.

# 19 Aidan Pearson

Words from the coaches:

Aidan Pearson sets the standard for work ethic every single day, leading by example in both practice and games. He anchors the penalty kill with fearless commitment, consistently putting his body on the line to block shots and disrupt scoring chances. His tenacity and relentless pressure force opponents into mistakes and swing momentum in our favour. Aidan’s selfless, team-first mentality and willingness to sacrifice make him an invaluable presence on the ice.

Words from Aiden:

Hi, I’m Aidan, also known as Bubba. In the future, I plan on taking some time to work before going to school to become a conservation officer.

My favourite memories on the team have been the hockey tournaments and spending time with the boys.

Some advice I would give to incoming players is to always work hard and never take for granted the time you have on the team, because it goes by fast.

# 10 Maddyn Hughes

From the coaches:

Maddyn brings leadership, dedication, and heart to everything she does. As our captain, she leads by example every single day through her focus, her work ethic, and her commitment to this team. Her determination pushes all of us to work harder and be better, and her steady presence keeps us grounded in big moments. Our team is stronger because of her leadership, and we are so lucky to have had her these four years. We are proud of you and will miss you, Maddyn!

Maddyn’s words:

I’m Maddyn Hughes.. Or Mads. To be honest, I can’t believe I’m the senior now. Hockey has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it’s hard to put into words what this sport and team mean to me. The rink became my second home, and these girls quickly became my second family. Hockey has taught me so many lessons that I will take with me beyond high school. Leadership, hard work, confidence, discipline, and dedication. My favourite Saints hockey memory from the past four years was in my grade 10 year when we beat Fort in the finals to go to OFSAA, an experience I will never forget. My advice for future saints is to work hard every shift so you don’t get yelled at by Sean between periods and don’t get the “perogy” speech. After I graduate, I plan to go to university and study kinesiology.

I would like to take the time to thank my coaches, Dave, Jess, and especially my dad, for pushing me to be my best, teaching me, believing in me, supporting me, and occasionally getting mad at me.

My teammates, past and present- who have become some of my best friends- thank you for the laughs and memories I will cherish forever.

And my mom and dad, thank you for everything you’ve done for me; none of this would’ve been possible without your love, support, and sacrifices. And for believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. I love you.

Wearing number 10 has been an honour, and I wouldn’t change it for anything.

# 31 Rowan Phillips

Words from the coach:

Rowan Phillips has proudly represented the Saints for four outstanding seasons, embodying dedication and loyalty to the program. His infectious will to compete to make himself and those around him better has had a lasting impact on the culture of Saints hockey. Even after suffering a difficult injury this season, Rowan’s character truly shone as he continued supporting teammates in practice and offering help wherever it was needed. He has been a pleasure to coach, and replacing both his leadership and presence will leave a significant void for our team.

Words from Rowan:

I'm Rowan, also known as Popo or Philly. In the future, I plan on pursuing post-secondary education with an undergraduate degree in nursing, followed by medical school, with the end goal of becoming an anesthesiologist.

My time with the saints has been a blast, filled with great new friendships and countless memories. Memories that stand out for me are the bus rides with the boys, messing around, jamming out to the tunes, or getting fired up for the next game. It was always a good time, and it was an awesome experience that I'm going to carry with me for the rest of my life.

For younger players or players hoping to be a Saint in the future, don’t complain, listen to your coaches and teachers, keep your grades up, and enjoy every second, every win, every loss, every bag skate and every celebration because before you know it, it's over and it is time to move on.

# 7 Ryan Hatfield

Words from the coach:

Ryan Hatfield is the kind of player every coach appreciates—respectful, attentive, and extremely easy to coach. He brings a relentless, hard-charging presence on the forecheck, making every shift difficult for opposing defenders. His positive, team-first attitude never wavers, and he consistently puts the group’s success above his own. Ryan’s competitive level and commitment ensure that opponents feel his impact every time he steps onto the ice.

Words from Ryan:

Hi, I’m Ryan, also known as Hatty.

In the future, I plan on taking a year off to work before attending university.

My favourite memories as a Saint have been going to tournaments and spending time with friends.

One thing I’d like to tell future Saints is to always give 100% and be confident in yourself.

# 6 Sam Casey

Words from the coaches:

Sam Casey has shown tremendous growth, improving his game with every opportunity he’s given. He has developed into a reliable and trusted piece on both ends of the ice, contributing to all situations. His physical strength, powerful shot, and relentless drive to become the best version of himself have played a major role in our team’s success this season. Sam’s determination and steady presence will be greatly missed moving forward.

Words from Sam:

Hi, I'm Sam, otherwise known as Casey.

One of my favourite hockey memories with the team is when Henry hit the “Dougie” at the rookie party!

Next year, I plan to pursue an apprenticeship to become a journeyman electrician.

One thing I would like to say to the upcoming players is to have fun!