Benet Academy Forward Luke Alpeter ‘Brings a Calm, Intense Presence’

Luke Alpeter, a senior forward for Benet Academy in his third season on the Red Wings varsity, is driven to end his hockey career on a high note or two – highly motivated by last season.

For one, Alpeter wants Benet to capture the Kennedy Cup as the kings of the Chicago Catholic Hockey League (CCHL). “This year, we will win it back,” from four-time defending champion Saint Ignatius, he said.

Benet also was the state runner-up a year ago, falling 1-0 at the United Center to New Trier Green as the Trevians won their 20th championship in program history and their third in a row. Alpeter tagged the loss to New Trier as, “disappointing.”

Alpeter’s junior season endured its biggest obstacle early on. On September 28, 2024, to be specific. “Going into the boards for a check, I fell awkwardly on my shoulder. Instantly, I knew it was dislocated and a pretty big deal, though I played through it for two more games, (yet) dislocated it once more,” he said.

After a couple of doctor visits, he had an MRI on his shoulder and the medics knew his shoulder labrum was torn pretty badly, he said. “I got the results back almost immediately and the doctor gave me two options: have surgery on my left shoulder requiring a strenuous four-month recovery, or not return to sports.”

He chose surgery.  

“The loss of hockey made recovery the toughest thing I’ve had to overcome in my life. Hours of lost practices and games spiraled me into a rut of boredom and frustration,” he said. “My mom made sure I was comfortable, helped dress me and drove me places. I felt helpless knowing I couldn’t do anything by myself. With my active lifestyle gone, I was devastated and missed my friends. Watching my team succeed from the sidelines was the toughest part. I felt disappointed I couldn’t be on the ice.”

Alpeter, 18, who lives in Naperville, formerly skated for the Sabres. He had 4 goals and 2 assists in Benet’s first 16 league games this season. “I think we can make it to the state championship again with the right preparation,” said Alpeter, who noted the team’s strength is “hockey knowledge, academics (and) creative play.”

Benet head coach Andrew Schlie said Alpeter, “brings a calm, intense presence.”

“He is a fierce penalty killer and defensive forward,” Schlie said. “He brings a respected voice to the locker room and raises the play of those around him.”

Alpeter for the past two years has been running a skating program with several friends, Chicago Edge Adaptive, for kids ages 3 to 18 with physical and developmental disabilities. “I assess their skating ability and make individual programs for their skill level and different needs,” he said. “This experience has shown me a new side to a sport I love dearly. It’s refreshing to get away from the big hits, exciting goals, high intensity and work on (the) skills of beginners.

“To make a positive impact on my community through philanthropy and relationship building (is so meaningful). My favorite part (is) how they come to camp happy every single day, excited to see me, and seeing how much I meant to them, even after a short time in their lives. Through different experiences I’ve learned a broad definition of service before self and I now know that it doesn’t look only one way. Community contributions to me means service, connection and bringing out the best in others.”

Slapshots With … Benet Academy Forward Luke Alpeter

Jersey Number: 23  
Career Highlight: Scoring the game-winning goal Against Marmion in the CCHL playoffs  
Style of Play: Grinder, physical  
This Season: Scored two goals against Carmel Catholic  
Second Sport: Plays baseball for Benet
Off The Ice: “I work out a lot; I love driving my car, hanging out with friends.”
Superstitions: “Stepping on the cracks of the rubber on the bench.”  
Long-term Career Goal: “To become a captain for Delta or United (Airlines).”
College Plans: Attend Auburn University and their professional pilot program, start learning how to fly planes.”  
Favorite NHL Team: Chicago Blackhawks  
Favorite NHL Player: Connor Bedard  
Favorite Sports-themed Movie: Miracle  
Favorite TV Show: Suits  
Motivational Song: Back In Black by AC/AD
Favorite Pre-game Meal: Rice and beef  
Favorite app: TikTok  
Celebrity You’d Like To Meet: Drake  
Favorite High School Uniform (other than Benet): St. Viator (white)