Reps. Frey and Ferguson, Sen. Boucher, Welcome State Champion Ridgefield Hockey Team to Capitol

HARTFORD – State Representatives John Frey (R-111) and Michael Ferguson (R-138) joined State Senator Toni Boucher (R-26) in welcoming the 2017 State Champion Ridgefield High School Ice Hockey team to the State Capitol in Hartford.  The Ridgefield delegation proudly introduced the Tigers players to their colleagues on the floor of the House of Representatives.  Later, they presented them with a state citation in honor of their triumphant 6-2 win over Northwest Catholic in the Division I State Championship game – the first in program history for Tigers hockey.

“Let’s give these guys and their coach, Shaun Gallagher, a round of applause,” said Rep. Frey on the floor of the House.  “It wasn’t just luck for Ridgefield. The talent, effort, and dedication from these players was extraordinary by any standard. This team culture is exemplified not just in the remarkable skill of Jack Stafford, who received all-FCIAC second team honors, or his peers Matteo Van Wees, Harrison Chuma, and Sean Keegans, who each received all-state and all-FCIAC honors. This team culture is also visible in the admirable team loyalty of Ryan Stewart, whose injury stopped him from playing yet who stayed throughout the season to manage the team, and Gordon Santiago, who served as team photographer.”

“This is a proud moment for the Town of Ridgefield.  I am genuine impressed with this group as hockey players, as teammates, as students, and as well-rounded young men.  Among this talented group are honors students and many who have won awards for their participation in theater and mock trial.  I look forward to the contributions they will make as hockey players, students, and citizens,” added Rep. Frey.

Senator Boucher said the young men are a fine example of how dedication, teamwork and determination can lead to victory.

“Each member of this team is a source of pride for the Town of Ridgefield. They are exemplary students, talented athletes, and their hard work is an inspiration,” Sen. Boucher said. “Looking at them, I see a bright future for our state.”

Rep. Ferguson also was proud to honor the group at the State Capitol and remarked on how impressed he was by their accomplishments.

“It really was an honor for me to be able to be a part of celebrating this team and everything they achieved on and off the ice this school year.  They are a tremendous source of pride and inspiration for their hometown and for the State of Connecticut,” said Rep. Ferguson.