In their regular season, South’s varsity hockey team fought to move up in the standings. However, as they enter
into state, they battle to stay alive.

As the season came to a close against Stevenson, South finished with a South Suburban Hockey League (SHL) record of 22-7-1, their best record in team history, senior varsity forward, Zach Friemuth, said. Despite their successful record, the team looks to seek redemption in the state playoffs after their loss to Saint Ignatius in the SHL playoffs, 3-1, Friemuth said. As the team anticipates an upcoming state tournament for a chance to play at the United Center at the end of the month, he explained the team is ready.

“The ups and downs of the regular season have prepared us well for the pressure,” Freimuth said. “Handling pressure in big moments makes or breaks seasons. Building confidence and staying consistent is key.”

In addition to staying consistent, battling and mental toughness while facing adversity is what makes a state winning team, Freimuth explained.

“The ability to take punches and keep getting back up formulates a championship team,” Freimuth said.

Varsity forward junior Benji Pajerski explained that after the playoff loss to Saint Ignatius the team hopes to redeem themselves.

“We cannot go out like that again and that we have one last chance to get to where we want and learn from the
loss,” Pajerski said.

The team is ready to compete when state rolls around because everyone understands their role, Pajerski explained.

“We know what we are playing for and everyone has a ton of talent and makes sure to contribute it towards the team [in a positive way],” Pajerski said.