Eric "Bitty" Bittle
Eric "Bitty" Bittle, the heartwarming protagonist is a multifaceted character who exudes Southern charm, resilience, and authenticity. As a former figure skater turned college hockey player, Bitty navigates the challenges of a rough-and-tumble sport with unwavering determination and a fierce love for baking. His petite stature and fear of physical contact on the ice contrast with his bubbly and effervescent personality off it.
Bitty is openly gay and undergoes a journey of self-discovery, learning to embrace and express his identity with increasing confidence. His warmth and kindness draw people towards him and he forms deep, meaningful friendships with his teammates. Bitty's passion for baking serves as a metaphor for his nurturing nature, bringing comfort and sweetness to the lives of those he cares about.
Throughout the series, Bitty's character evolves, showcasing his willingness to stand up for what he believes in and his capacity to love deeply, making him a relatable and endearing character for readers.
Jack Zimmermann
Jack Zimmermann is a complex and compelling figure. As the talented captain of the Samwell University men's hockey team, Jack grapples with immense pressure and familial expectations, stemming from his hockey prodigy status. His reserved demeanor and introverted nature often lead to misunderstandings but beneath his stoic facade lies a sensitive and introspective soul.
Jack's character arc is marked by personal growth and the courage to confront his past particularly his relationship with his father and his journey to come out as gay. His evolving romance with Bitty is both heartwarming and poignant, showcasing his vulnerability and capacity for love. Jack's dedication to hockey and his teammates as well as his gradual opening up to those who care for him, make him a character of depth and relatability within the story.
Ransom and Holster
Ransom and Holster also known as Justin Oluransi and Adam Birkholtz respectively are an inseparable duo. They bring an infectious combination of humor, loyalty, and genuine camaraderie to the Samwell University men's hockey team.
Ransom with his towering physique and friendly disposition often acts as the team's big brother figure while Holster, known for his easygoing nature and frequent tandem conversations with Ransom, provides comic relief and a sense of fun to the group. Together, they create an atmosphere of inclusivity and support within the team, fostering deep friendships with their teammates, particularly Bitty.
Shitty (Chris Chow)
Shitty is another member of the hockey team and a close friend of Bitty and Jack. Shitty whose real name is Chris Chow is a standout character in the book. Known for his eccentric personality and penchant for delivering hilariously unconventional advice, Shitty adds a unique and vital element of comic relief to the story.
Beneath his carefree and often irreverent exterior, he is a fiercely loyal friend who provides unwavering support to his teammates particularly Bitty and Jack. Despite his peculiarities, he exhibits a keen understanding of life's complexities, sexuality, and self-discovery often guiding his friends with insightful commentary.
Lardo (Larissa "Lardo" Duan
Lardo whose real name is Larissa "Lardo" Duan is a multifaceted character in the book. As the team's manager and a talented artist, Lardo possesses a no-nonsense attitude and an enigmatic air. She is known for her remarkable ability to capture the essence of her friends and teammates through her art, creating a visual record of their experiences on and off the ice.
Lardo is a confidant to many including Bitty and offers a unique perspective on the team's dynamics. Her character embodies a blend of artistic sensitivity and practicality, demonstrating the importance of embracing one's passions and talents while navigating the complexities of life and relationships.
Nursey and Dex
Derek "Nursey" Nurse and William "Dex" Poindexter are two compelling characters known for their dynamic and evolving friendship. Initially, they have a somewhat contentious relationship with Nursey's laid-back attitude contrasting Dex's meticulous nature. However, their interactions gradually evolve into a deep and meaningful friendship marked by mutual respect and understanding.
Nursey's poetic and introspective personality complements Dex's practicality creating a harmonious balance between them. Both characters undergo personal growth with Dex learning to let go of some of his rigidity and Nursey finding stability and purpose.
Chowder (Trevor "Chowder" Chow)
Trevor "Chowder" Chow is a lovable character who brings infectious enthusiasm and positivity to the Samwell University men's hockey team. As the team's jovial and friendly goalie, Chowder is known for his unwavering optimism and passion for the sport. Despite facing challenges on the ice, his resilience and determination inspire his teammates and make him a beloved figure within the group. His endearing personality and genuine kindness foster strong friendships, particularly with Bitty, and create a supportive atmosphere within the team.
Betsy and Whiskey
Betsy and Whiskey also known as "Tater" and Troy "Tango" Whippen respectively are later additions to the Samwell University men's hockey team. Tater, an international student from Georgia brings a warm and exuberant personality to the team. His cheerful nature coupled with his formidable skills on the ice make him a valuable addition. Tango, on the other hand, is a thoughtful and analytical player who often balances out Tater's exuberance with his calm and composed demeanor.
The duo adds depth and diversity to the team dynamics and their friendship with other members further reinforces the series' themes of inclusivity and the importance of finding one's place within a close-knit group of friends and teammates.
