Champlin Park High School’s hockey team played their first game of the season on Friday night after losing their teammate, Max Akerson, to cancer. Max, a 16-year-old, had bravely fought liver cancer for several years. During the game against Woodbury, fans honored him by wearing T-shirts in his memory.
Max’s absence was deeply felt in the Champlin hockey community. A memorial at the arena showcased photos and memories of him. Payton Johnson, a friend and teammate, expressed gratitude for the dedication to Max and remembered him as a bright person who brought joy to others.
The team held a meeting to process their emotions after Max’s passing. Head coach Tom Potter emphasized the importance of the mantra “Play for Max” as the season’s motivation. He encouraged the team to give their all in every game, reflecting Max’s dedication.
What initiatives is the booster club planning to support Max Akerson’s legacy?
Interview with Coach Tom Potter on Champlin Park High School’s Hockey Season and Honoring Max Akerson
Interviewer: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us, coach Potter.The first game of the season must have been a bittersweet moment for the team. How did you think the players coped with Max’s absence during the game against Woodbury?
Coach Potter: It was incredibly tough for all of us.Max was not just a teammate; he was a friend and an integral part of our community. During the game, you could feel the impact of his absence. The players rallied together to honor him,and I think in many ways,they drew strength from the memories we all shared. The support from the fans wearing T-shirts in his memory showed just how much he meant to everyone.
Interviewer: I understand that a memorial was set up at the arena. Can you tell us more about that?
Coach Potter: Yes, we created a special area in the arena to celebrate Max’s life. It was filled with photos and notes from teammates, friends, and family. It served as a beautiful reminder of the joy and positivity he brought into our lives. I believe we all felt connected to him even in his absence, and it became a place for our players to find comfort as they grieved and celebrated his life.
Interviewer: After losing Max, how was the team able to process their emotions?
Coach Potter: We held a meeting shortly after his passing, where we opened the floor for everyone to share their thoughts and feelings. It was important for the players to express their grief and lean on each other for support. We decided to use the mantra “Play for Max” as our guiding principle for the season. It reminds us to play with heart and determination, just like Max did throughout his battle.
Interviewer: That’s a powerful message. Looking forward,you have a meaningful memorial event planned for December 5. What can you tell us about that?
Coach Potter: Yes, we’re really looking forward to that night when we face Andover. Fans are encouraged to wear orange, which was Max’s favorite color, to show their support. It’s a night dedicated to his memory, and we hope to play our hearts out and secure a win for him. We want to make not just Max proud, but also his family.
Interviewer: The hockey team’s booster club is also involved in supporting Max’s legacy. Can you elaborate on their initiatives?
Coach Potter: Absolutely. The booster club will be hosting a silent auction during the memorial event, and we’ll be collecting donations to fund a scholarship in Max’s name, and also support cancer research.This is our way of ensuring that Max’s impact continues beyond the rink. We want to celebrate his life and make a positive difference in the community in his honor.
Interviewer: Thank you, Coach Potter, for sharing your insights and feelings about this arduous time. It sounds like the champlin Park hockey community is coming together to honor Max in a meaningful way.
Coach Potter: Thank you for having me. We’re all united in our mission to keep Max’s spirit alive, and I appreciate your support in sharing our story.
A significant memorial event is planned for December 5 at the Champlin Ice Forum, when the team will play against Andover. Fans are encouraged to wear orange, Max’s favorite color, to show their support. Potter hopes to secure a win that night to honor Max and make his family proud. Additionally, the hockey team’s booster club will host a silent auction and collect donations to fund a scholarship in Max’s name or support cancer research.
