A deafening roar filled Novi Ice Arena as senior Hannah Roegner scored the winning goal against Ladywood at the MHSAA Division I Ice Hockey state championship on March 11. Mercy supporters were on their feet cheering, waving maroon and gold posters adorned with the numbers of various players on the team. For Roegner, all she could hear were the excited shouts of her teammates as they congratulated her. She had truly made the last moments of her high school hockey career memorable and ended her successful season with a bang.

“I was ecstatic, and I was laughing and smiling and crying my eyes out all at once,” Roegner said with a smile. “It was probably one of the greatest moments in my hockey career thus far.”

Roegner attributes much of her achievement to her teammates. Through tough practices, graceful losses, and humble victories, she says their support and encouragement were what helped Roegner perform her best on the night it mattered.

“None of this would have happened without the entire team, especially [sophomore] Libby [Bartels],” Roegner said. “She was the one who scored the goals to tie up the game and passed me the shot to score.”

The few seconds of fame for Roegner were well-deserved after four months of grueling workouts and rigorous training. At times, the overwhelming load of schoolwork and intense hockey practices took a toll on her, but she never let the stress dampen her enthusiasm and willingness to lead the team she loves. Roegner’s natural talent enabled her to be a mentor to her younger teammates.

“I tried to be positive and lead by example, but sometimes I came off a little harsh,” Roegner said with a laugh. Roegner’s situation was quite unique this season in that this was her first, and only, season on the team. However, Roegner lost no time in carving a legacy for herself. Next year, she will carry her talent, dedication, and leadership skills to Adrian College where she will begin a new chapter in her hockey career, but Saturday’s victory will always hold a special place in her heart.

“I’m still on cloud nine,” Roegner said. “I couldn’t be happier.”