On Feb. 26, the Spartans traveled to the Scottrade Center for their championship game against Marquette High School. Unfortunately, the team lost the Wickenheiser cup to the Marquette Mustangs with a score of 2-4.
According to senior captain Matt Gregg, playing in the finals was an experience he will always remember.
“It was an overwhelming feeling, even though we did lose,” Gregg said. “ It was kinda weird when we were first out there. It was really bright. It’s a changeup compared to a normal ice rink.”
During the first period, Marquette scored twice. Senior Hunter Zeig managed to score Central’s first goal within the last few moments. Senior Corey Robinson scored with four minutes left in the final period. However at that point, Marquette was leading the scoreboard by two goals.
“After Corey scored, we all looked up at the clock, and we saw we had plenty of time to get it done,” Gregg said. “ It gave us light knowing we had four minutes left to score two goals. We’ve done that numerous times throughout the season, so it seemed do able. We weren’t quick about it, and we didn’t execute it like we hoped to.”
After Central’s defeat, the players spent their last moments together in the locker room. Though Central was defeated by Marquette, the true loss came from knowing the seniors won’ t return next year.
According to junior Gabe Vendetti, many tears were shed.
“When I was crying on Friday night, I wasn’t crying because the season was over. I was crying because eleven of my best friends – pretty much my brothers were leaving. I’d never get to play hockey with them again,” Vendetti said.