Last Friday, before a hockey game between McLean High School and Langley High School at SkateQuest, Coach Heuple, father of Zack and Colton Heuple, took a brief moment to honor his deceased son.

Zack Heuple, former Highlander who graduated in the year 2015, passed away in an accident in September while he was in Spain as part of an exchange student program. His friends and family have been grieving, but have also supported each other through this difficult time by recalling their favorite memories with Zack.

Before the hockey game, Coach Heuple stood on the ice with his wife by his side, and spoke into a microphone for all to hear.

“Zack wasn’t the best player on the ice, but he had the most heart,” Coach Heuple said with composure.

Following a brief silence, the audience applauded in appreciation. Langley players also demonstrated their sympathy by embracing Coach Heuple following his speech.