First responders honored at Saint Ignatius College Prep’s first JV hockey game since bus crash – NBC Chicago

Two months after 16 junior hockey players at Saint Ignatius College Prep in Chicago were injured in a crash between a bus and a semi in northern Indiana, the hockey team returned to the ice Sunday night with a few special guests.

When the Saint Igantius Wolfpack took on the Marmion Academy cadets at Fifth Third Arena, many first responders were on hand to see how far the team has come.

“It’s humbling to do something like this,” said Brad Kellar, a captain with the Warsaw Police Department. “It’s overwhelming. It’s unique, and it’s just special to be a part of it.”

On the night of November 12th, numerous Warsaw Police Department officers responded when a bus carrying nearly two dozen Saint Ignatius hockey players was struck by an allegedly intoxicated semi driver.

Although some of the most seriously injured players have been left off the ice, it’s a wonder the situation wasn’t much worse – thanks to the quick action of first responders. Along with several police officers, the paramedics who responded that night traveled more than 100 miles to cheer on the team.

“We’re so excited,” said Alicia Mediano, a Lutheran EMS worker who responded to the crash. “We’re all here tonight just to see them do something they love. We saw them at their worst, and now we’re excited to see them do what I know they’re very passionate about and excited about.”

Before the ceremonial puck drop, police officers, emergency personnel and others were honored for their life-saving efforts.

Michael Rigitano, Saint Igantius JV Hockey Coach, explained that the team is grateful for everything Mediano did that night in November.

“He was a rock star,” the coach said. “Running the show. Keeping everyone calm, cool, collected. He was amazing.”

At just 14 and 15 years old, the teenagers have been through a lot together, but after all that, hockey has helped them heal.

“The team has been … We’re really tight right now,” said Lucas Joa, JV captain. “This whole thing has brought us really close. We just want to start playing again.”

The Wolfpack won Sunday night’s game 5-0. Although the three most seriously injured players are out for the season, they are back in school. The players are expected to join their teammates next year.