https://derekhinesfund.com/about/

Hello SJP Hockey families, friends, and supporters,

For the past 17 years, the St. John’s Prep Varsity Hockey program has proudly raised funds in support of the 1st Lt. Derek Hines Soldiers Assistance Fund; all proceeds raised go to the fund.

Derek Hines was a four-year varsity hockey player at St. John’s Prep, graduating in 1999. He went on to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he also played hockey all four years and served as team captain his senior year. Upon graduating from West Point in 2003, Derek was deployed to Afghanistan, where he served as a fire support officer directing artillery support for an infantry company.

Tragically, Derek was killed in action on September 1, 2005, at the age of 25. His No. 23 jersey has been retired by SJP Hockey and hangs proudly at the Essex rink in his honor.

This year marks the 18th annual Derek Hines Memorial Game, which will be played on February 14th against Newburyport High School, Derek’s hometown team. As in years past, the Varsity Hockey team will present the proceeds from the game, along with funds raised through a silent auction, directly to the Hines family prior to the puck drop. All proceeds benefit the 1st Lt. Derek Hines Soldiers Assistance Fund.

We respectfully ask you to consider making a donation to honor Derek’s legacy, sacrifice, and service, and to help continue the proud tradition established by the St. John’s Prep Hockey community.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and for helping us honor the memory of an American hero and a St. John’s Prep inspiration.

We kindly request that all donations be made by February 1, 2026.