The Rome community is invited to attend the “Character Matters” event at the Capitol Theatre on March 28, 2024, at 6:30 pm to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of the 2023-24 RFA Varsity Hockey Team. Mayor Lanigan, with the assistance of the RFA Hockey Booster Club, will be honoring the team’s exceptional season. Although the Black Knights ultimately lost to West Genesee in Syracuse, they displayed remarkable skill, perseverance, and teamwork throughout the season. A victory would have marked the program’s first title since 1990, highlighting the significance of their achievement.
“We are immensely proud of our RFA Varsity Hockey Team for their outstanding performance this season,” said Jason Nowicki, the team’s coach. Their dedication, determination, and sportsmanship have been truly commendable, and this event will provide an opportunity for our community to come together and honor them for their hard work. While we may have come up short of our goal, this team is not short on the character it takes to be a team player and good citizen.”
During the event, each player on the team will be individually recognized, alongside their coaches, for their contributions to the team’s success. Attendees can expect an evening filled with heartfelt tributes, memorable highlights from the season, and special acknowledgments of the players’ achievements on and off the ice.
In addition to being great athletes, the team has shown exceptional character through their community volunteer efforts, including reading to elementary students during Regents week, skating with Ridge Mills kindergarten classes, assisting with the Youth Hockey Learn to Skate program, and helping with private lessons. They led by example, making a lasting impression on younger players by participating in the RFA vs. the Rome Grizzlies Mites team.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of the RFA Varsity Hockey Team and acknowledge their significant contributions to our community,” said Mayor Lanigan. This Character Matters event serves as a testament to their dedication and will inspire future generations of competitors. We couldn’t be prouder of them as not only athletes but also citizens of this community.”
All friends, family, hockey enthusiasts, and members of the Rome community are encouraged to come and show their appreciation for the 2023-24 RFA Varsity Hockey Team’s remarkable season.