Ames Lightning

State Championship games at 2pm at the RecPlex

Let’s go Ames!

Senior Spotlight 🏒 Assistant Captain Dillon Keller

I’ve been playing hockey for 15 years, and my earliest memory is playing travel hockey as a Mite 👶❄️. That’s where my love for the game really began.

My favorite hockey memory is winning the Bantam A Championship in 2021 🏆🔥—a moment I’ll never forget. What I’ll miss most is the game of hockey, along with the friends and family ❤️🤝 I’m leaving behind.

After graduating, I plan to enter the workforce 💼 and continue my career in underground utilities 🚧🛠️.

Advice to other players: always tell yourself you’re better than the next guy on the ice 💪. Believe in yourself, work hard, and never let anyone put you down 🚫🗣️.

Senior Spotlight 🏒 Darien Walker

I’ve been playing hockey for 10 years, and my earliest memory is playing for the Junior Wild Green team 💚 in House League. That’s where my passion for the game really took off.

My favorite hockey memory is playing for the Iowa Storm ⛈️, an experience I’ll always be grateful for. What I’ll miss most is the team bonding 🤝 and the relationships built along the way.

After I graduate, I plan to run track 🏃‍♂️ at the University of St. Thomas 🎓💜 and continue challenging myself as an athlete.

Advice to younger players: don’t be afraid to play physical 💥—confidence and toughness go a long way on the ice.

Please join us on Sunday, February 8, to honor our amazing Seniors!

Senior Spotlight 🏒 Assistant Captain Tyler Ehrecke

I’ve been playing hockey for 10 years. My earliest hockey memory is going to watch the Chicago Blackhawks 🟥⬛ play for the first time.

My favorite hockey memory is playing outside in the cold ❄️ during a Bantam game in Chicago—there’s nothing like outdoor hockey and the atmosphere that comes with it 🥶🔥. What I’ll miss most is playing alongside my friends and teammates 🤝 and sharing unforgettable moments at games.

After high school, I plan to pursue a building trades program 🛠️🏗️ and begin the next chapter of my life.

Advice to younger players: don’t take life for granted ⏳. Make the most of every moment, because time truly flies 🚀.

🌟 Senior Spotlight: Evan Pfantz, Captain 🌟

I’ve been playing hockey for the past 10 years 🏒. My earliest memory is scoring my first goal in Okoboji 🥅, a moment I’ll never forget. My favorite memory from my hockey career has been having the opportunity to lead the Lightning team ⚡. I will truly miss the bond between teammates 🤝 and the competitiveness of every game 🔥.

After graduation, I will be attending Iowa State University 🌪️, where I plan to major in Business 📚. My advice to younger players is to dedicate time to the game ⏱️ and never take it for granted ❤️.