Reading the testimonials for Lars Johansson that have poured into my email box over the past few weeks has left me wishing I had known the former class of 1986 Montclair High School hockey star — or at least seen him play.
Friends, teammates and coaches all agree that the defenseman’s skills weren’t just about puck-protection, but also about the joy of the game, and indeed, of life itself.
Johansson died on November 15, 2007 from inoperable brain cancer, but his smile and perseverance seem to still be ever-present in the memories of his friends and family.
On Saturday evening, November 13, MHS ice hockey alumni from the 1980’s will face off against the school’s 1988 team — which was recently inducted into the NJ Ice Hockey Hall of Fame – to play a commemorative game, called Lars Johansson, Never Give Up. The event is a fundraiser for the scholarship fund in Johansson’s name and will be at Clary Anderson Arena.
Memorial tributes to Johansson, and a ceremony to officially retire his jersey will precede the puck-drop. MHS’s 1980s-era coaches Bruce Parker and Tom Clifford will return to coach their former team members.
Johansson was 39 when he died, and the father of four children. After high school, he attended the University of New Hampshire, where he played Division 1 hockey and went on to play professionally in Sweden. In his later years, Johansson continued his passion for hockey by coaching New Jersey youth hockey, where his son Cameron played.
Below is a sampling of the many accolades that have come in for the intrepid defense, whose love of playing spread far beyond the rink — out into the larger game of life.
Lars Johansson Never Give Up Game
Clary Anderson Arena
Saturday, November 13th, ceremony begins at 6, game at 6:45
$15.00 for adults
$5.00 for children ages (2-17)
Children under the age of 2 are free.
Post game gathering at the Montclair Woman’s Club after the game from 8:30 – 11:30. 82 Union Street Montclair NJ 07042.
Lars Johansson was ready for every practice or game, both mentally and physically. He was always focused. He set a superb example for all his teammates. He was a true leader by example. He always gave his best. Through all of this, he had a wide smile on his face because he had a deep and abiding love for the game of hockey.
Lars Johansson “Never Gave Up”!Lars Johansson is in my High School Hockey Hall of Fame which includes players from NH, MA, and NJ. Lars Johansson belongs in the NJ High School Hockey Hall of Fame!
Coach Bruce Parker
As a freshman, in 1985, trying to make a very talented Varsity MHS Hockey Team. I figured if I couldn’t match up talent wise, I would be one of the hardest working players on the ice. During one particular drill, I fell and was a bit discouraged. The first person over to me was senior, Lars Johansson. He told me to get up and skate harder. He told me he knew what I was going through and that I needed to keep working my butt off and good things would happen. That is exactly the leadership I needed at that time. That persistent, never give up attitude, that always radiated from Lars is why I had the honor to be his teammate during the 85/86 season.
Erik Bayersdorfer
