Cup win causes excitement at Desjardins' old high school

During the Stanley Cup finals, teachers at the high school wore Blackhawks colours, and on June 15 — the day of the final game — students also dressed up for the occasion.

“It's extremely exciting for our school and our community,” said the school's principal, Leslie Mantle.

Kim Chezzi, who teaches phys ed and science at Lively high, said she taught Desjardins several classes.

“I'm so very proud of him,” she said. “I've honestly followed Andrew's accomplishments. I tell the kids about him still to this day.”

Chezzi said she sent messages of congratulations to Desjardins and his family following the Stanley Cup win.

She said she remembers Desjardins as a kind, polite, very athletic boy. He didn't have much time for high school sports because of his involvement in hockey, but still managed to play some volleyball and badminton.

As a teen, Desjardins hung out with a large group of athletically gifted boys.

“All the guys he hung out with, they all played hockey together growing up,” Chezzi said. “They all were friends from grade school.”

In a blog he wrote for NHL.com, Desjardins expressed appreciation for the support he's received from the Lively community. He said he looks forward to bringing the Stanley Cup back to Lively.

“I'm looking forward to him bringing it to Lively, and having a chance to congratulate him personally,” Chezzi said.