EASTON, Mass. – The 2025-2026 Senior Reflections is a series of annual collections. Senior representatives of teams at Stonehill have been invited to contribute and reflect on their personal experiences over their four-year careers at Stonehill - both on and off the playing surface. 
 
Frank Ireland, Men's Ice Hockey
 
Why Stonehill?
I chose Stonehill because it offered the perfect balance between strong academics, community, and the opportunity to compete at high level in Division 1 hockey. I wanted a place where I could challenge myself both on the ice and in the classroom.
 
How has Stonehill shaped you as a person?
Stonehill has pushed me to grow in every aspect of life – whether that be academically, athletically, and personally. Resilience and balance were key factors I learned from balancing schoolwork with athletics.
 
When I first stepped on campus, I was excited but unsure how I would handle everything that came with being a student-athlete. I was focused mostly on hockey and academics, but not as aware of how to manage time, relationships, and personal growth. Now, as a senior, I am more confident and mature. I have learned how to lead, how to handle adversity, and how to maintain a optimistic perspective.
 
Best Moments
My best moment is being a part of the building blocks for Stonehill's first Division 1 team. What came along with that was being a multi-year captain, our first win, beating the ninth ranked team in the country, and many other memories over the years. It was an incredible experience to be a part of history and competing against some of the best programs in the country. Academically, my best moment was completing my major and connecting classroom lessons to real world experiences.
 
Lessons Learned
Over the four years I have learned about myself that I am capable of more than I thought – especially when it comes to managing pressure and staying disciplined. I've learned how to manage time correctly, being held accountable, and perseverance.
 
Stonehill has helped me develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills that will serve me well beyond college. Being a student athlete has taught me how to work with a team, handle adversity, and stay focused on long term goals. I've also gained the ability to manage time, adapt to challenges, and lead by example. All skills that translate beyond school.
 
To view the past Senior Reflections visit this site: 2025-2026 Senior Reflections. 

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