When you think of Good Counsel, you probably think about its great athletic program. GC has won over 70 WCAC titles in the last decade alone, and graduates have gone on to play at the highest level in both college and professional sports. GC is always among the best sports schools in the area, in part because of our tremendous student-athletes. 

In this recurring segment, you will be able to get to know some of the GC athletes who go out and represent our school in athletic events.

Today we get to feature Parker Jones, who is a captain of the GC hockey team. Parker is a dual-sport athlete- he plays hockey during the winter and plays baseball in the spring. This feature will focus on his experience playing hockey given we are currently in hockey season. 

Introduction:

When and why did you start playing hockey?

I started playing ice hockey when I was 5 years old. I learned to play at my local ice rink in Rockville and found enjoyment from playing the game.

What position do you play?

I grew up playing forward, but I am now a defenseman.

What’s your favorite part about playing hockey?

The fast pace of play, physicality, and skill from playing the game are all parts of hockey that I enjoy and are reasons for why I play.

Hockey:

What has been your greatest challenge playing hockey- and how have you overcome it?

After breaking my collarbone last year early in the high school hockey season, I was devastated. I spent months rehabbing and overcame my injury by coming back to play in the final games of the season in the WCAC and MAPHL playoffs.

What’s the team environment like? What do you guys do to bond on and off the field?

The team environment is very welcoming but also motivating. On and off the field I have bonded with my fellow teammates by also being teammates on a club ice hockey team.

What skills/traits do you think are needed to be a successful captain of your team?

Leadership, whether it is vocally or skill-wise, is a trait that is needed to be a successful captain.

What’s your pregame hype song?

I currently don’t have a pregame hype song.

School:

What’s your favorite class in school?

AP Physics or AP Statistics

What are you interested in studying after high school?

Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Aeronautical)

How do you manage to play a sport and keep up with school?

Time management is one of many ways that I can play two sports during the school year while also keeping up with my grades and rigorous classes.

Legacy:

Who would you say is/has been your biggest inspiration?

My parents have been my biggest inspiration growing up. Specifically, my dad motivated me to start playing baseball and also hockey at a young age. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing hockey?

Mental toughness has always been an important lesson that I have learned from playing hockey. Whether you get knocked down or the opposing team scores, being able to persevere and overcome adversity have been lessons I’ve learned from hockey.

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently either on/off the field during your high school years?

Looking back, there is nothing I would have done differently on/off the field during my years at Good Counsel.

What do you want your legacy to be at GC?

While I do hope to make a lasting impact at GC, being recognized for my efforts is not necessary. Regardless of whether I am noticed, I value the time that I have spent positively impacting those around me in the GC community on/off the field.