Bergey’s Inc.
SOL SHSHL Player of the Week
This recognition is sponsored by Bergey’s Inc. Athletes are chosen based on nomination of coaches, and the recipient must be a positive presence on the ice and a credit to the game. Consideration also is given to the student-athlete’s standing in the school and community.
Jake Wexler – Senior at Pennridge High School
The senior captain is second on the team with six goals and five assists for 11 points. He is one of just two seniors on a young Rams’ squad. Wexler boasts a strong work ethic and has been a positive role model for the younger players.
Note from the coach:
“A few weeks into the season we had our team pictures taken, and I remember when the photographer asked me to have all the seniors ready for individual shots, I looked through the pile and called out Jake and said ‘It's just you,’” coach Wade Witzaney said. “We had our second senior player join the team later in the season.
“A lot was expected of Jake this year. He was Captain of a young squad that would be tested and tuned up for most games, but that didn't deter Jake at all. Jake only has one speed, which is flat out, and combined with an amazing amount of stamina, one would be hard pressed to find a soft shift in any game he plays. With Jake, it always comes down to the work ethic. Whether it be at practice or against the top teams, his effort and passion to play remains consistent. This will have an impact on Jake's future success with anything he decides to do.”
About Jake:
Best memory playing high school hockey: My best memory from my high school hockey career would have to be the final game I got to play in front of my brother, Dustin, in net. It was the first round of the Flyer’s Cup playoffs against Boyertown. It was a very physical game, and it was hard-fought on both ends of the ice. With all the effort put forth, the game was forced into quadruple overtime. Even though the other team was able to steal a heartbreaking goal to win, the battle against Boyertown will always feel like a victory to me due to the excitement and work ethic put forth.
Part of the game I enjoy most: Although seeing my friends and scoring a beautiful goal are amongst the greatest feelings in the world, nothing makes me happier than when I am pushed to the brink of exhaustion and find a way to overcome adversity. Throughout my years of playing hockey, I have found that achieving your goals and accomplishing what others thought to be impossible is the most satisfying feeling you can have. I have been faced with many situations where my determination has been put to the test. Looking back, I can truly say that these were the moments that I enjoyed the most.
How did you get involved in ice hockey? At a very young age, my dad took up roller hockey to help himself stay in shape. Naturally, my brother and I followed suit and picked up a stick as well. Eventually we moved our hobby to the ice, and my passion for the sport developed from there. Each time I stepped on the ice, I realized more and more that this is something that I would be doing for a very long time. I don’t think I will ever get tired of lacing up. This sport has truly changed who I am.
My role model is: If I had to pick someone as a role model, someone I look up to, I would have to choose someone who has excelled in the sport that I love. It may be an obvious choice, but Wayne Gretzky “The Great One” is the most impressive player to have ever played. Watching old highlights of him motivates me to better myself. Seeing someone make hockey look so effortless made me want to pursue the sport further as well, and someday I hope that people could look up to me in the same way.
Music on iPod: Even though I am from a younger generation, some good rock ‘n roll mixed with some heavy metal is all I need to get my adrenaline pumping. (AC/DC, Godsmack, Motley Crue, Skid Row, possibly some Eminem here and there…)
Favorite food: My mom’s breaded chicken - she’s been making it once a week for the past three years, and I still haven’t gotten tired of it!
Favorite class: Even though it has been a struggle, Mathematics has been the home of some of my fondest memories. Good teachers, good friends, and good grades always make for a good class.
Future plans: I’ve been accepted to a few good schools so far, but I have yet to make a final decision as to where I would like to attend. I am hoping to major in engineering (either mechanical or industrial), and I also wish to continue my ice hockey lifestyle.
Four people I’d invite to a dinner party:
1. I guess I should start with my “role model” and say Wayne Gretzky. I’m sure a couple of hours with him would render some helpful tips and tricks to improve my own game.
2. Next would have to be Mike Rowe. It may seem odd, but on television he comes across as one of the most interesting people, and he has experienced a lot of the world and its culture so some casual dinner conversation with him would probably be life-changing.
3. Any of the Presidents (past or present) so hopefully they could tell me about Area 51 and other conspiracies.
4. Finally, I would have to bring Jackie Chan. Let’s be honest, the guy is a Kung Fu master and his movies are hysterical!
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