Houlton’s Jimmy Fitzpatrick plays a gentleman’s game on the ice. But, he carries that respect to the fields of soccer and baseball, as well. He also shows consideration for those in the hallways at Houlton High School or serving in the community.
“Jimmy is a talented three-sport student-athlete at Houlton High School,” said Principal Marty Bouchard. “He captained our state championship soccer team this fall and was the second-leading goal scorer in the state. Jimmy also participates in ice hockey and baseball, where he is a team leader, as well.”
Bouchard noted no matter how busy Fitzpatrick keeps himself playing varsity athletics, he is still a top-notch student.
“Jimmy ranks in the top quartile of his class academically,” said Bouchard. “He is a great role model for others to follow. He understands the importance of working hard in all that you do and making the most of opportunities. We are proud to have Jimmy Fitzpatrick represent Houlton High School.”
The senior was among 38 male hockey players who earned Maine’s 2013 High School Hobey Baker Character Award. Sixteen females were also awarded.
“I was surprised,” said Fitzpatrick of being a recipient. “I think this is the first year it has been given out. I was honored to receive the award. My parents — Lauren and Chris Fitzpatrick — were very proud, as was I, because of the fact that it was for character.”
The Maine Interscholastic Hockey Coaches Association, in conjunction with the Hobey Baker Foundation, named the initial recipients for its Maine program. The awards are given annually to one high school senior from each participating boys/girls hockey program in the state. The award recognizes and rewards student-athletes for displaying exemplary character and sportsmanship in their schools and communities.
“Jimmy has been a leader on the Black Hawks since he was chosen as a captain his junior year, “ said Black Hawks coach Joel Trickey. “Jimmy has led the team, not only by the example he’s shown in practices and games, but also by his ability to speak up and lead with his voice when that is needed. Jimmy has been a major player in bringing the entire team together as a group focused on a common goal instead of a group of individuals focused on themselves and not the team. Another factor in his receiving this award is that he’s not only done this in hockey, but in other sports and his daily life, as well.”
Fitzpatrick is honored to receive the award because it doesn’t just recognize skill, but character too.
“Not just speaking for myself, I think it is good that they are recognizing people for not only being outstanding players, but also players that bring teams together,” added Fitzpatrick. “That’s what it’s all about … being a leader and showing how to look past personal differences and work as a team.”
The Hobey Baker High School Character Award is an extension of the prestigious Hobey Baker Memorial Award given annually to the nation’s top collegiate ice hockey player.
Hockey coaches from schools across the state have selected one member of their team to receive this honor. Selected students exemplify the spirit, sportsmanship and character represented by the collegiate award through their attitude, work ethic, unselfishness, and “coachability.”
Fitzpatrick would advise younger players that it is important “to play with a certain level of respect for your opponents and your own teammates because when it’s your turn to step up and be a leader, you will receive the respect you have given out.”
Hobey Baker was considered to be the greatest hockey player of his era and also the first American superstar hockey player. At age 26, he died while piloting a newly repaired airplane in France. Ironically, his orders to return home were found tucked inside his jacket.
“The spirit of the 2013 Hobey Baker High School Character Award is to acknowledge that it takes more than hockey skill to develop great student athletes and the development of exemplary character and sportsmanship in our high school hockey players is a vitally important aspect of the student–athlete experience,” said Mike Tausek, Maine state director of the program. “We are honored to participate in this important award and recognize these outstanding high school students in Maine as we believe that character builds excellence.”
Recipients of the awards were announced on March 7, and the girl athletes were recognized March 13.
Another regional winner was Adam Flynn of Presque Isle.
