SARATOGA, N.Y. (NEWS10) — It's been 10 years since the 2014 Union men's hockey team won the program's only national championship, making its mark on one of the best teams in Capital Region history, and on Friday that team was honored at Saratoga Race Course.
Most members of the team took part in the day's events, which began with a meet and greet with fans, followed by a trip to the paddock for a special riders' up and running race dubbed the “2014 Union Hockey National Championship Race,” which was followed by a post-race trophy presentation and video presentation.
Ten years later, it still means a lot to them to be beloved by the Capital Region. “It's special for all of the players that were part of the team, including the coaching staff,” said Matt Boddy, team captain in 2014. “We've had such a warm welcome from the Capital Region, especially Schenectady, and it's really special to be back and see everyone in high spirits. I couldn't be more proud of our players and we're just enjoying this moment.”
“That's what the Union is all about,” said Frozen Four MVP Shayne Gostisbehere, now a defenseman with the Carolina Hurricanes. “Not just the school, but the community around it. The support that we have here today, you saw it. Just walking around the grounds here, so many people came up to us and told us how grateful they are for what we did and the memories. I remember it like it was yesterday. It's still ingrained in them. It's still ingrained in all of us. We're just so grateful.”