The Club is honored to recognize and thank our outgoing president, Melissa Surrette, for her years of service to the Hawks and Phantoms hockey clubs.  Early this year, Melissa stepped down as President to transition into her new role within AHAI, Illinois hockey’s governing body.   We are sad to lose her, but we are extremely excited for her as she begins her new chapter within the hockey world.  The Illinois hockey community is lucky to have such a devoted advocate of the sport that we all love.   

We are so grateful and can’t thank Melissa enough for the countless hours she has devoted to our Club over the years.  She has been involved with the Hawks and Phantoms since 2011 as a parent, a volunteer, team manager, and serving on the board of directors for the past 8 years, as club treasurer, vice president and president.  During her tenure as president, the Club experienced many exciting achievements and significant growth which can be attributed to both her and our hockey director, Steve Poapst’s hard work, both in front of and behind the scenes at Darien.  She was instrumental in launching our social media presence.  Helping to make the off-ice weight room a reality was something she took on and brought to life along with making a very generous donation to help get it all started.  Her commitment and leadership (especially during a pandemic) were essential to our Club’s growth and success.  If you know Melissa, you know she jumps in with both feet, gives 110%, and pours her heart and soul into whatever she is doing. 

Melissa has served the Club over the years with unrivaled passion, energy, and an incredible amount of personal time and resources.  She has always been driven in her duties by a strong desire to continually do what was best for the kids.  We are excited and fortunate that Melissa will continue her involvement in our Club as a vital resource to the Board.   

When you see Melissa around the rink, please be sure to thank her for her service.  We wouldn’t be the Club we are today without her.  

 
Thanks, Melissa.  We wish you the best!