Escanaba Splits Pair in Traverse City, Raises Health and Community Questions
Escanaba shut out Traverse City Central 5,0 on Friday before falling 7,0 to Gabriel Richard on Saturday in games played in Traverse City. The results highlight not only team performance but also the role of high school sports in student health, community cohesion, and resource equity across the county.
Escanaba senior forward Graham Johnson dominated on Friday, scoring four goals as Escanaba defeated Traverse City Central 5,0 in a game played in Traverse City on December 1. Henry Sholten added a late goal to finish the scoring and goalie Culley Hayes was credited with a strong performance in net. The victory was followed by a difficult game on Saturday when Gabriel Richard routed the Eskymos 7,0. Connor Forester, Matthew Hillock and Michael Taucher, who scored consecutive goals, helped build a decisive lead. Despite the score, Escanaba outshot the Pioneers 26 to 24 but could not convert opportunities.
Eskymo coach Andy Johnson said of the Saturday game that "they had all the puck luck," praising his team's defensive effort despite the score. The team is scheduled to play Calumet next.
Beyond the win loss totals, these games matter to Grand Traverse County because high school athletics are a public health touchstone. Regular participation in team sports contributes to physical fitness, mental wellbeing and social connection for students. Local games also bring community members together, generating social capital that supports youth development and local identity.
At the same time the weekend outcomes underscore persistent equity questions. Smaller and rural programs often face uneven access to training staff, travel funding and facility time, which can affect injury prevention, recovery and competitive balance. Ensuring consistent concussion protocols, ready access to athletic trainers and affordable transportation for families should be priorities for schools and county health partners.
School leaders and public health officials can use the momentum of packed rinks and engaged communities to advocate for sustained investment in youth sport health infrastructure. That includes funding for certified athletic trainers, culturally responsive mental health support for student athletes and scheduling that minimizes travel strain on families.
As the Eskymos regroup for Calumet, players and coaches will be balancing the immediate demands of competition with the longer term needs of athlete safety and equitable opportunity across the region. Those considerations will shape not only the season but the health and resilience of Grand Traverse County youth for years to come.
