This year’s Great Lake State Weekend (GLSW) was a memorable occasion, bringing together Laker legends from hockey to share their experiences and wisdom with the current team. Former Laker hockey players Keith Aldridge ’96, Steve Davies ’77, and Stephen Mulholland ’83, visited the Laker Hockey team during practice, offering invaluable insights and inspiring the next generation of Lakers to carry forward the traditions of excellence at Lake Superior State University (LSSU).
Keith Aldridge, a standout in Laker Hockey history, took a moment to speak to the current hockey team, sharing a personal reflection about the lasting bonds formed through the sport. “I haven’t seen some of these guys in 20 to 30 years and it’s like we never left each other,” Aldridge said, addressing the camaraderie that defines the Laker community. “So enjoy that camaraderie.” Aldridge, who had experienced the ups and downs of college athletics, also reminded the players to cherish their time in the program. “I know sometimes the daily grind is tough—the ups and downs of hockey, the ups and downs of winning and losing—but enjoy this time because snap your fingers and it’s over and all of a sudden you have grey hair!” His words resonated with the players, urging them to embrace every moment of their college careers.
Stephen Mulholland, another Laker hockey legend, echoed similar sentiments, reminding the players that their time at LSSU was about more than just hockey. “You guys come here to play hockey and get a degree, but what you really get is an education—an education of life, support, strategy, competition,” Mulholland said. “No matter where you’re at—whether it’s the NHL or in business—it will serve you well the rest of your life, so enjoy these years, they’ll go quickly.” His emphasis on the broader life lessons gained from the college experience was a powerful reminder to the team of the lasting value of their education at LSSU.
Steve Davies, a respected leader in the Laker hockey community, also spoke to the players, underscoring the importance of the tradition they were continuing. “You guys have a great tradition in front of you,” Davies said. “And I know I speak for everybody and I wish you all the luck—you guys are good guys!” His encouragement helped to solidify the sense of pride and responsibility that comes with wearing the Laker jersey.
The visit from these Laker legends was not only an opportunity for the current players to receive guidance, but also a chance for the alumni to see firsthand how the program has evolved. The newly renovated locker room and the Doug Weight Performance Center were on full display, highlighting the commitment to enhancing facilities for today’s athletes. The contributions of alumni like Doug Weight, who established the Doug Weight Hockey Endowment to benefit Laker hockey operations, were integral to making these upgrades possible.
As the current players continue in the season ahead, their interactions with the Laker legends serve as a powerful reminder of the community and tradition they are a part of. From Aldridge’s emphasis on camaraderie to Mulholland’s life lessons and Davies’ wishes for success, the players left practice with a renewed sense of pride and purpose. The legacy of the Lakers, built by players like Aldridge, Mulholland, and Davies, is one that continues to inspire and guide the next generation of Laker athletes.
