HILLIARD, Ohio — Hilliard Davidson Senior Captain Owen Ambrozy played hockey since he was 5-years-old.

A dozen years later, he's living out his dream as state champion with the Hilliard Hockey Club.

“It's just crazy. It's such a rush. The adrenaline was through the roof. It's kind of hard to believe it just happened so fast,” said Ambrozy. 

On March 6, Ambrozy scored two third-period goals against Dayton, including a game-winner to hand Hilliard its first-ever Buckeye Cup State Championship. 

But Ambrozy and the team are far from done as they battle for a USA Hockey High School National Championship title in Texas. 

While he said the team continues to fight for respect, Ambrozy said it's been nice to be recognized by the city of Hilliard and central Ohio hockey fans. 

“It's good to see that all of our hard work is finally getting rewarded. I know kids that are just getting into the game. I know people that are starting to grow interest in it,” said Ambrozy. 

“Sometimes you have to self-promote. Sometimes you have to show people. You have to earn that respect. But I've always been told that respect is earned, not given. So that's what I think we're out here trying to do,” said Jonathan Alder Senior Alex Kerr. 

Ambrozy will attend West Virginia University this fall with his teammate, Kerr, and whether he's playing club, intramural or walking on, hockey will continue to be a big part of his life and future. 

“It's definitely been a good motivation, and it's always going to be with me. So, I'm excited, yeah, for whatever comes next,” said Ambrozy. 

Hilliard takes on Lincoln Stars Hockey Club of Nebraska, Thursday at 2:15 p.m.