Union's Hockey Team Scores Trip To Nationals

By Craig Day, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- While the U.S. Olympic hockey goes for the gold, only one squad from Oklahoma has been selected to compete against the country's best high school hockey teams.

Members of the Union Ice Hockey Club are pounding the pavement for donations to make their rare opportunity a reality.

It's playoff time – a time when every play, every shot, and every stop count.

"To me, I just love the physical aspect of it, and the teamwork aspect of it," said Union hockey player Tommy Courtney.

"I just come alive out here, except for that one," he said as a puck escaped him.

Speaking of coming alive, the team is getting a rare opportunity: to compete in the high school varsity nations in Chicago.

"It's been a blast to watch them grow," said Union Coach Alec Hines.

"We're very proud parents," said Team President Vicky Courtney

Union will be the only team to represent Oklahoma.

"Our varsity team is going to show them what we got here," said player Blake Barnes.

"I tell you, it's a testament to these young boys, because they really have worked hard," Coach Hines said. "Head up."

Fifteen varsity players will make the trip. A handful have played in out-of-state tournaments before, but nothing like nationals.

"It really brings us all together," said goalie Tommy Courtney. "Knowing that we can compete on the - oh boy - compete on the national level here."

"It will be an experience they remember their whole life," said Alec Hines, Union hockey coach.

The first hill to climb is paying for the trip, an estimated $12,000 to $15,000.

"The kids have worked on some fundraisers, but it's really hard to get that kind of money together," said Vicky Courtney, team president.

They hope to get donations, or score a major sponsor. Until tournament time rolls around, they'll keep fundraising – and practicing.

After all, right now a city championship is on the line.

If you'd like to help out with the team's trip to the high school varsity nationals, donations can be made to the Tulsa Youth Hockey Association. Just make sure you put varsity nationals on the memo on your check.