
PHOTO COURTESY of DEAN GEORGOPOULOS
ALEX BIREN '26 guards Loyola Hall
Hockey, a sport built on speed, energy and resilience, holds an untapped potential at Loyola High School. While Cubs rally for fall Football or spring Baseball, hockey quietly sits on the sidelines waiting for its chance to shine. With a passionate group of players who work hard every day to display Loyola as the respectful, hard-working school it is, it is time to give the sport the recognition it deserves.
Coming off a win right before Spring Break, the Cubs’ season is still young, and it’s the perfect time to start supporting them as their run continues.

Loyola’s hockey presence may not be as prominent as other sports, but the players are striving to change that. The idea of hockey being an official Loyola sport started in 2002, as it was thought to be a great addition to Loyola’s community. The idea was approved, but players were needed in order for the team to play. Students stepped up, and the team has been operating to this day.
As Samuel Melnikov ’27 puts it, “Our team is incredible. Led by our amazing head coach, Coach Dino, we separate ourselves from other sports. We play with a physicality like no other sport, and our hours of hard work pay off.”
Although some do not think hockey is for them, Weston Brough ‘27 believes anyone can find joy in playing: “Hockey is fast paced and keeps you on your toes. It takes the team lots of practice to be able to go out on the ice and play. The excitement from scoring, and then moving into the fast-paced nature of the game, can keep anyone intrigued.”
As the season continues, Loyola’s hockey team is ready to display its expertise and passion. With players like Sam Melnikov and Weston Brough, it is clear that Loyola hockey has the potential to create well-rounded Cubs who want nothing more than to add to our community and culture.
So, whether you’re a die hard fan of Loyola Hockey, the Los Angeles Kings or you have never watched a second of hockey in your life, now is the time to fully embrace the excitement and hop on the hockey train