Submitted by Brian Lee
The Hilliard Hockey Club and four Jonathan Alder students had the privilege of scrimmaging at The Columbus Blue Jackets Winter Park this past Thursday, February 11. Although it was an intra- squad scrimmage, there was no doubt that the players were having a good time as this unique situation allowed them to play at an outdoor NHL regulation ice rink. Labeled as “The Blue vs White Game”, Jacob Lomabardi, Eric Wilhelm, Isaac Lee and Joey DuBosh all enjoyed the chance to play like NHL players that participate in The NHL Winter Classic. This is an annual game held by The NHL that pits two teams against each other at an outdoor venue in different cities. However, you don’t have to be an ice hockey player to enjoy The CBJ Winter Park.

The Columbus Blue Jackets Winter Park is presented by Worthington Industries and is a month-long celebration of the winter season. It is open now through Sunday, February 21, 2016 at McFerson Commons, which is across the street from Nationwide Arena. As mentioned before, the main attraction of The CBJ Winter Park is the NHL-sized ice which is also available for public skating and a variety of community events. Public skating sessions are $5 each, which includes the cost of the skate rental. In addition to skating activities at the rink, there are fire pits for social gatherings, a large heated tent that serves as a gathering place for weekend entertainment and food/ beverage service. There is also even a replica of The Blue Jackets locker room for fans to view. In addition, a large video screen near the ice rink broadcasts Blue Jackets games during the weekends. During the evenings, McFerson Commons welcomes Winter Park visitors in another way, as the nearby stretch of Nationwide Boulevard is decorated with thousands of lights on the trees illuminating The Arena District and creating a festive mood.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to have some outdoor winter fun at The Blue Jackets Winter Park. Catch some hockey, do some skating, hang out with your friends, and have a great time. For more information, please go www.bluejackets.nhl.com/club/page.htm?id=108419

The Hilliard Hockey Varsity Club was back in action on the road this Sunday, February 14, vs The Dayton Stealth. Although this was a road game, it was played The OhioHealth: Springfield Chiller in Springfield, Ohio. This is a short drive from JAHS. The Hilliard JV had 2 games this weekend. They played Saturday, February 13 at 5 pm at The OhioHealth: Dublin Chiller against Pickerington, as well as on Sunday, February 13 at The OhioHealth: Dublin Chiller at 12:30 pm against The Columbus Ice Hockey Club. Come join the fun and admission is always free.