Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: James Connors (Boys Ice Hockey)

Ice hockey has been a steady part of Leominster High School senior James Connors’ life since he first picked up a stick in eighth grade. Introduced to the game by friends, he began with deck hockey before transitioning to the ice, and he has appreciated the sport ever since.

“I like the speed of the game,” Connors said. “Hockey has taught me the importance of being confident. I have learned to want the puck while on the ice, which has shown me how to go after what I want in life, too.”

Entering his senior season, Connors is a three-year varsity athlete. He played significant minutes in each of the past two seasons, served as an alternate captain as a junior, and now leads the team as a senior captain.

“James is a three year varsity player and has really stood out as a strong competitor and a great role model for other players on the team,” said varsity head coach Frank Mooney. “He is a strong skater with good decision making and his effort in practices and games is always top on the team. He has gone back and forth over his career between playing center and defense, doing whatever is most helpful for the team.”

Connors is active across multiple sports in the Blue Devil community. He ran cross country for three years before switching to golf this past fall, and he competes on the boys lacrosse team in the spring.

“Outside of school, I like to ski, fish, and I continue to work on my golf game,” Connors said.

After high school, Connors hopes to pursue a career as an electrician. His favorite class at LHS has been electrical shop, and he credits Mr. Cote and Mr. Gollinger as his favorite teachers.

James Connors embodies the Leominster High School / CTEi core values of responsibility and togetherness. His contributions to the boys ice hockey program are summed up best by Mooney: “James is a selfless player and he is vital to our team's success both on and off the ice.”