Daniel Connor

For 34 years, Rink Manager and Groundsperson Daniel Connor has been a crucial member and #1 fan of PEA’s ice hockey team. During his time on campus, Connor has made a lasting impact on the daily routines of both the hockey team and the Academy as a whole.Prior to his arrival at the Academy, Connor graduated from high school with a desire to work with both students and sports equipment. “I want to be like a parent to these kids and teach them the ways of life, so when they get older, they can do anything,” he said.During his years on campus, Connor has made connections with a variety of students and faculty members through his dedication and optimism. “He always wants to know how you’re doing,” upper and junior varsity hockey player Charlotte Lisa said. “Not just a ‘Hey, how are you?’ He’s actually interested [in your day].”Lower and varsity hockey player Grace Emmick believes that Connor brings more energy and excitement to their practices. “On Monday mornings, you don’t necessarily want to be up that early, but he’s there, he’s happy, he’s ready to go,” Emmick commented.Connor enjoys the relationships he made with previous hockey players and students. “The kids graduate and they come back,” Connor said. “It’s a nice feeling to have them remember you after they leave for four years and come back.”Melissa Pacific, the Girls’ Varsity Hockey coach, appreciates Connor’s interactions with team members. “The kids adore him,” Pacific mentioned. “He's supportive at all games, no matter if it’s JV or Varsity.”As a Rink Manager, Connor dedicates his time to perfecting the arena before hockey practices and games. “[He is] always there for anything you need,” upper and JV hockey player Caroline Huang said. “Whether it’s unlocking the locker rooms or bringing you some extra gear, he makes sure you’re perfectly prepared to go play your game.”Lisa believes that Connor’s work at the Academy contributes significantly to the success of the hockey teams. “Even if what [the staff] does appear to most students to be in the background, what they do is so critical to everyday life,” Lisa explained. Outside of maintaining the rinks and groundskeeping, Connor enjoys participating in other campus activities. “I go to all the plays at the theater,” Connor said. “I go to all the games. I’ve watched baseball, football, … I cheer [for the players] and they tell me ‘thanks for cheering for me, Danny.’”Connor also enjoys rollerblading and making use of the Love Gym’s facilities. “[Every] Friday from 12 to 1, we have water aerobics in the pool here [with a] class for the staff and faculty,” he said. “[It’s fun] to get in the water and get some exercise.”Throughout his many years at the Academy, Connor has strived to make students feel comfortable and welcome at the rink. “These kids come here from all over the country and they study hard,” Connor applauded. “So when the kids come here I make sure I joke with them and make a nice, happy environment.”Connor believes he has strong relationships not only with students but also other staff members. “If you’re good to them, they’re good back to you,” he said. “We all need each other here, [it’s like a family].”Marianne Barbin, Assistant Director of Athletic Operations, admires Connor’s hard-working attitude. “I think my husband and I will probably retire before Danny,” Barbin predicted. “I think he’s going to keep going. He’s just like the Energizer bunny and he loves this place.”“Dan and I have known each other for half a century,” Boys’ Varsity Hockey coach Dana Barbin said. “When he became Rink Manager, I knew he was going to be fabulous with the kids. His first thought is always what he can do for them to make their experience at the rink a great [one].”For Connor, his most important priority is maintaining a good connection with the hockey team members and students. “I put the students first and I come second, and it seems to be working,” he reflected. “I believe [if] you take care of the kids, the kids will take care of you.”