HNIB News - Volume 31 #3 New England HS Preview

Hockey NigHt iN BostoN News

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DecemBer 10, 2014

Page 3

New HampsHire Hs preview

• Division I Overview •

By Kevin Doyle • HNIB News

C

atch phrases such as “there is great parity” and “the league is wide open” popped up time and again during the pre-season information gathering process. The excitement among coaches is genuine – none see a clear-cut favorite and those responding to our poll question believe the title is truly up for grabs.

We’re opening with Salem (153-1 NH record) on top. The Blue Devils return many key players who rolled through much of last season but faltered late. Count on coach Mark McGinn’s group to be highly motivated.

No. 2 Pinkerton (10-9-1 NH) went 8-1-1 down the stretch last year, roaring into the semifinals.

The Astros are stocked with seasoned veterans.

Defending State Champion and

Salem Gets #1 Nod In Tight Race

MANCHESTER CENTRAL captains and coaches with 2014 NH Division I championship trophy after 3-1 win over Londonderry.

(Photo by Gary Demopoulos)

Little Green Won’t Sneak Up On Anybody MANCHeSTer CeNTrAL (14-7-0) The Little Green caught fire at exactly the right time a year ago and rode that late momentum to a State title. Coach Brian Stone knows they have the target on their back this season.

While defense was a calling card last season, the offense will have to step to the fore this year, especially in the early going. Senior playmaker Jon

Mathieu (6-14-20) and senior sniper Devon Sprague (12-6-18) are premier forwards and will be joined on the attack by talented sophomore Cody Lappas.

Senior Jake Clark (5-4-9) ranks among the State’s top two-way defensemen. Central must overcome key losses on the back end, including All-State goalie Ian Beliveau and All-State defenseman Tim Tetrault.

Pinkerton Must Be Watched Closely

PINKerToN (11-9-4) Beware the Astros, who launched to an 8-1-1 finish last winter. That led to a semifinal appearance following a 2-0 quarterfinal upset of Salem.

Coach Joey Lee said this year’s club is looking to build off that success and move into title contention.

There is abundant talent up front with forward group powered by senior wings Gio Corsetto (12-20-32, +15) and Ethan Landry (14-12-26, +10) and junior center Tyler Poole (9-13-22, +9), as well as senior veteran Ryan Monte.

Senior goalie Brendan Murphy (2.39 gaa, .903 save pct.) appeared in 17 games last season and anchors the defense. Senior John Hamilton could see time at either forward or defense for the Astros.

Gio Corsetto Pinkerton

Ryan Monte Pinkerton

No. 3 Central (14-7-0) hit its stride midway through last season.

Offense will carry the Little Green early on.

State finalist and No. 4 Londonderry (16-5-0) was hit hard by graduation but coach Peter Bedford is confident the Lancers’ next wave is ready to roll.

If there is one absolute about No. 5 Memorial (8-8-3) it is this – Coach Mark Putney’s squad will be one of the division’s hardest-working night in and night out.

How will No. 6 Bedford (21-0-0) fare in its first D1 campaign? The three-time defending D2 champs have a key commodity most don’t – experienced goaltenders.

No. 7 Bishop Guertin (8-9-1 NH) returns one of the most experienced clubs. No. 8 Hanover (7-111) will lean heavily on a veteran core, especially early.

No. 9 Trinity (10-9-0) is deep and experienced but needs improved productivity. Senior goalie Zane Angelopoulos provides stability for No. 10 St. Thomas Aquinas (16-3-1).

In addition to Bedford, new co-op Alvirne/Pelham makes its Division One debut.

HNIB NEW HAMPSHIRE DIVISION I POLL TEAM

WL T

1. Salem 2. Pinkerton 3. Central 4. Londonderry 5. Memorial 6. Bedford 7. Bishop Guertin 8. Hanover 9. Trinity 10. St. Thomas

19 11 14 16 8 21 9 7 10 16

3 9 7 5 8 0 10 11 9 3

1 4 0 0 3 0 2 1 0 1

HOCkEy NIgHT IN BOSTON NEwS

PaGe 4

HNIB News • Volume 31 - Number 3 HNIB NEWS Staff -PuBlISHEr EmErItuS-

-Staff WrItErS-

lance lofaro (1946-2014)

Gary demopoulos Kevin doyle michael fornabaio Jon turner Yardley dom Nicastro Nathan fournier fran Sypek

-EdItorGary demopoulos

-SalES/advErtISINGGary demopoulos Jamie Callery

-GraPHICS/SCHEdulESGary demopoulos Jamie Callery Kevin doyle

2014/15 PUBLICATION DATES • November 6 - Jr. Hockey Preview • November 25 - Prep School Preview • December 10 - New england/NJ HS Preview • December 17 - Massachusetts HS Preview • December 20 - Coaches Directory/Arena Guide • July- Boys Summer Showcase Magazine • August - Girls Summer Showcase Magazine

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DECEmBEr 10, 2014

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Printed at Gannett Offset nOrwOOd, Ma NH Div I Poll 3 HNIB News Staff 4 NH Division I 3-7 NH Division II 8-10, 12 NH Division III 13-14, 19, 37 Maine Class A 15-17, 19 Maine Class B 20-22 Vermont Metro 23-24 Vermont Lake 25-27 Conn. Division I 28, 30-32 Conn. Division II 32-35 Conn. Division III 35-37 Conn. Girls HS Hockey 37 RI Division I 39-41 RI Division II 42-43 RI Division III 41, 43 New Jersey Hockey 44-49 Maine Girls HS 50-51 Rhode Island Girls 52, 55 Vermont Girls Hockey 54-55 NH Girls Hockey 55

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CoVeR PHoto Photo of Mt. St. Charles legendary coach Bill Belisle taken by Jerry Silberman.

Check out his website at: RIsportsphotos.com

2014-15 New England/NJ HS Preview

T

he 2014-15 high school seasons are now underway, or soon to get underway, throughout New England, and in this issue, we cover the states of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New Jersey.

In New Hampshire, Division I hockey, Salem is picked as the preseason #1. It will be interesting to see how Bedford, winner of the last three Division II titles, fares in its first year in the Division.

Maine HS hockey features a pair of two-time defending champs going for their third title in a row in Falmouth in Class A and Messalonskee in Class B. Vermont’s Metro Division race is always hard-fought. This year, South Burlington gets the slight edge as pre-season #1.

Connecticut’s trio of Catholic school powers will lead the Division I race in that state. Not much separates Notre Dame of Fairfield, Fairfield Prep and Notre Dame of West Haven as the season begins in that state.

In Rhode Island, the state has undergone some slight realignment but Mount St. Charles, winners of six of the last seven titles in the top division, will battle with rivals Bishop Hendricken and LaSalle.

For the first time in six years, Delbarton is not the defending Private School champ in New Jersey. It will be interesting to see if the Green Wave can get back to the pinnacle.

This year, we have also expanded our preview coverage for Girls HS Hockey in the New England states. In New Hampshire, Hanover is going for its sixth consecutive state title.

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NeW HamPSHIRe HS PRevIeW

Newcomer Bedford Will Test Division 1 Waters

John Krapian Bishop Guertin

Justin Pearson Bishop Guertin

Jason Lutcza Bishop Guertin

Cameron Hult Bishop Guertin

Cardinals Rely On Strength In Numbers Bishop Guertin (9-10-2) The Cardinals are looking to improve upon their quarterfinal appearance of a year ago and will rely on strength in numbers. Coach Gary Bishop welcomes back a team deep and forward strong on the blue line.

Nearly three full lines return, paced by junior Justin Pearson (8-8-16) and senior John

Krapian (6-8-14). Seniors Jason Lutcza, Tim Trudel and Ryan Montbleau; junior Joseph LaValle; and sophomores Austin King and Jordan Caito join them.

Senior Nick Apostolakes, and juniors Cameron Hult, Joseph Leahy and Joseph Goudey form the defense in front of sophomore goalie Thomas Norton.

Concord Seeks Return To Post-Season ConCord (7-14-0) After missing out on the post-season a year ago, the Crimson Tide will lean heavily on senior goaltender Ben Nelson (2.89 gaa, .902 save pct.), a three-year starter. Coach Dunc Walsh says the Tide will have to improve collectively from back to front in order to

achieve the playoffs.

Junior forward Bradley Murphy (7-6-13), junior forward Matt Norris (5-12-17) and senior forward Alex Orcutt (5-7-12) will drive the offense. Senior Bishop Brady transfer Andrew Chorlian adds depth up front. The defense will be a work in progress.

Bedford (21-0-0) The Bulldogs capped off their three-year reign as Division 2 State Champion with a perfect season. Now they make the jump up to Division 1 having lost heavily to graduation. Coach Marty Myers knows good defense and consistency will aid in the transition.

Forwards Asa Palker, Brett Veilleux and Kameron Blaisdell; defensemen Matt Musgrave and Drew Connelly; and goalie Alex Lindberg return. New forwards Griffin Gagne, Nate John and Tyler Gamble and defenseman Chase Vaillancourt will be counted on to add depth.

New Co-op Opts Up As Well alvirne/pelham (5-12-1) This new co-op program ventures up to Division 1 under the direction of Brian Gould and will focus on playing a sound transitional game.

The Avalanche will lean on a strong nucleus.

Junior wing Bryce Blanchard (12-12-24) and senior center Cameron Blake (8-10-18) are the top scorers and will be joined by sophomore Brendan Parent. Junior Curtis Richall gets the call in goal, fronted by seniors Pat Devito (5-5-10) and Devin Herling (4-8-12) and sophomores Bobby Haverty (5-5-10) and Devin Ferguson on defense.

Youth Movement Keys St. Thomas st. thomas aquinas (16-3-1) At the conclusion of last season, which ended in the semifinals, the Saints appeared to be positioned as a title favorite this winter.

However, after losing five players to Prep and Midget programs and six to graduation, STA will instead be one of the division’s younger teams and will lean heavily on defense.

Senior goalie Zane Angelopoulos (2.06 gaa, .928 save pct.) provides the last line of defense while senior Luke Pepin is a stout stay-at-home defenseman. Senior Dakota Pidgeon (7-5-12) is the top returning scorer and freshmen forwards Garrett Swan and Ryan Gaulin could contribute immediately.

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New Coach Franey To Rebuild Brady Bishop Brady (0-18-0) New coach Russ Franey – a former player and assistant coach at Berwick Academy and the head coach of the Seacoast Spartan 2000 Elites – takes over the Green Giants intent on rebuilding from the ground up. He will stress unselfish team play and fully expects the Giants to make major strides and contend for a playoff spot.

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Goaltending and defense will be a strength, featuring senior keepers Kyle Jalbert and Andrew Yvars and senior Spencer Sloan, junior Matt Brousseau and sophomore Stephen Donelan manning the back line. Brendan Brack is the top returning forward. As many as 10 freshmen and sophomores could take regular shifts.

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the action all season long!

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Hockey NigHt iN BostoN News

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DecemBer 10, 2014

New HampsHire Hs preview

Division I Preview

15 Returners For Exeter Chris Lemay Salem

Paul Antkowiak Salem

Kyle Nagri Salem

Veteran Salem Group Motivated saLeM (19-3-1) It would be hard to find a more frustrated team at the conclusion of last season than the Blue Devils, who stood at 19-1-1 before dropping their final two games. A deep veteran group returns motivated to change that outcome.

Start with First Team All-State goalie Sam McDonald (1.30 gaa, .940 save pct.) and First Team All-State defenseman Paul Antkowiak (24 points), who leads a group of four returnees on the blue line.

The line of Cody Soucy (26 points), Kyle Nagri (22 points) and Kyle Svenson (22 points) form what projects to be one of the division’s most effective lines. Chris Lemay (16 points) will look to build on his breakout season of a year ago.

MaNchester MeMoriaL (8-8-2) Coach Mark Putney’s goal for the Crusaders is simple – outwork the opposition from start to finish each night in all three zones. A promising freshman class will bolster a solid veteran contingent.

Senior forwards Bryce Jacob, Andrew Putney, Nick Burgess, Matt Fitzgerald and Svetozar Fedorov will kick-start the offense. Senior Griffin Curley is the top returnee on the back line in front of senior goaltenders Brendan MacKenzie and Wesley Hodgman. haNover (7-11-1) Despite graduating nine, the Marauders still return a strong core and have the makings of a playoff team under veteran coach Dick Dodds.

Senior forwards Ben Acker (6-11-17), Gus Lyons (10-6-16) and Gavin Ratliff will be counted on to power the attack.

Senior Jin Lim returns as the top defenseman. Senior defensemen Kordell Lindsay and Ben Chaimberg will look to build upon their strong finishes of a year ago. Senior Mike Stinson and sophomore Luke Ratliff both gained experience in goal last winter. triNity (10-9-0) The Pioneers, quarterfinalists a year ago, figure to be as deep as any club in the division after graduating only five players. Increased offensive output is a primary goal for coach Mike Connell.

Bulky senior Colby Fortin, a bruising 215-pounder, is an imposing presence on the Trinity blue line. Junior Drew Merrick is the top returnee at forward and sophomore Curtis Wirbal picked up plenty of experience in goal last winter.

exeter (7-12-2) With 15 returning players with varsity experience, the Blue Hawks will be one of the division’s deepest teams. Defense should be a strength for coach Jim Tufts’ club.

Senior captain Andrew Stephens leads four veterans on the back line, joined by juniors Kyle Lorenz, Brandon Mello and Nathan Rumford.

Junior Bryson Desjardins and sophomore Tommy Steere return with experience in goal.

Seniors Reed Allen, Garrett Pietz, Christian Stone, Henrik Barbin, and Casey Marfongelli; junior Evan Royer; and sophomore Jake Vadeboncoeur are back at forward.

Evan Royer Exeter

Jake Vadeboncoeur Exeter

Lucas Poulin Londonderry

Next Wave To Power Londonderry LoNdoNderry (16-5-0) The Lancers came up a bit short in last year’s State Championship game.

Despite graduating 10 seniors from that club, coach Peter Bedford believes in “the next man up” philosophy and said it’s time for the next wave to step up and make its mark.

Senior forward Cooper Roy and senior defenseman Lucas Poulin will lead the way. Juniors Alexander LaPlante and Nick Donnelly and sophomore Pat Maloney are seasoned forwards and freshman Mike McKenzie could play a key role. Junior Colby Austin adds depth to the back line. The vacant goaltending job will be settled in the pre-season.

Connors Takes Over At Nashua South Nashua south (2-14-2) New coach Shawn Connors will count on a small veteran group as the Panthers seek a return to relevance. Centermen Steve Saucier and Arya Saliany will lead the attack with Owen McNulty back as the top defenseman.

South has been hindered by the lack of a JV program but freshman Nathan Radin is likely to take over in goal. Connors and his staff will stress team defense and a grinding

style geared toward winning puck battles.

Arya Saliany Nashua South

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DecemBer 10, 2014

New HamPsHIre Hs PrevIew

• Division II Overview •

By Kevin Doyle •HNIB News

A

move to Division One ended Bedford’s three-year championship reign. Who is the likely successor in Division Two? The survey says Dover (17-5-0) – with good reason. The Green Wave returns a deep, talented group from last year’s semifinal team. Senior goalie Luc Ravenelle, off a terrific HNIB Summer Showcase, leads the way for coach Steve Riker.

No. 2 Spaulding (15-5-0), also a 2014 semifinalist, features several marquee forwards and is strong on defense. Coach Paul George’s Raiders gave Bedford all it could handle in the post-season and will be a tough out.

No. 3 Windham (14-5-0), in its first D2 campaign as a stand-alone program, showcases flashy junior Chad Desautels. Coach Jerry Manchester’s Jaguars boast experience from front to back.

No. 4 Bow (16-4-1) is the third of last year’s semifinalist in the Top Four. Coach Tim Walsh’s Falcons graduated eight but this program simply reloads each year.

No. 5 Goffstown (13-6-0) welcomes back a talented veteran core and plays an honest game under coach Paul Roy. No. 6 Oyster River (8-10-1) projects to be strong defensively, returning amply experience on the blue line.

HNIB NEW HAMPSHIRE DIVISION II POLL TEAM

1. Dover 2. Spaulding 3. Windham 4. Bow 5. Goffstown 6. Oyster River 7. Merrimack 8. Portsmouth 9. Kingswood 10. Somersworth

WLT 17 15 14 16 13 8 11 11 7 6

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5 5 5 4 6 10 9 5 12 10

0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0

With Bedford Gone, Division Up For Grabs Dover, Spaulding Lead Pre-Season Pack

THREE-TIME CHAMP Bedford has jumped up to Division I, paving the way for a new Division II kingpin in 2015. (Gary Demopoulos photo)

No. 7 Merrimack (11-9-0) looks to make a move under new coach Matt Davis while No. 8 Portsmouth/Newmarket (11-5-1) expects to be a factor in its first D2 campaign.

In addition to Portsmouth/Newmarket, HollisBrookline returns to varsity status in a co-op arrangement with Derryfield under former Merrimack coach Kurt Mithoefer.

New coaches also take over at Kingswood (Michael Potenza), Merrimack (Matt Davis), Somersworth-Coe Brown (Bryant Lausberg) and Winnacunnet (Chris Myers).

Windham Goes It Alone WINDHaM (14-5-0) The Jaguars go it alone for the first time this season – Pelham moved to Division One in a new co-op arrangement with Alvirne – and coach Jerry Manchester thinks they have what it takes to be in the mix of teams seeking to succeed Bedford as D2 champion.

Junior center Chad Desautels (14-25-39) and senior wing John Monohan (12-7-19) lead the attack. Senior Vinny Forgione and junior Jack Crowley are the most experienced defensemen in front of goalie Christian Bassi, who takes over on a full-time basis this winter. Sophomore wing Danny Donovan and sophomore defenseman Brandon Madigan add depth.

hnibnews.com • FoLLow

Robert Markusic Dover

Luc Ravenelle Dover

Cam Crowley Dover

Pieces In Place For Dover DOveR (17-5-0) The Green Wave begins the season with a target on its back as the majority pick of coaches in the division as the team to beat. It’s an understandable choice as coach Steve Riker welcomes back a deep, experienced group.

Senior keeper Luc Ravenelle is the backbone of this team, looking to improve upon a junior campaign when he won 15-of-16 starts while posting a 2.25 gaa and .914 save pct. Senior Robert Markusic (7-9-

the aCtion aLL season Long!

16) anchors a defense that will also include mobile junior Francesco Pozzi of Trento, Italy and physical senior Brady Chamberlain.

Senior Cam Crowley (27-17-44) and junior Kieran Lombard (12-2032) power the forward group.

Sophomore Greg Stohrer was limited to six games last season due to injury but will move right into a feature role. A quartet of talented freshmen will add depth at forward and on the back line.

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New HampsHire Hs preview

Division II Overview

Ryan Dube Lebanon

Experienced Group Back For New Coach Kingswood (7-12-0) New coach Michael Potenza lost only one senior from last year’s tournament qualifier and inherits a seasoned group to work with. His goal is to finish in the division’s upper third.

The Knights figure to get consistent offensive

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Ryan Damren Lebanon

A Year Older, Lebanon An Intriguing Squad

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Lebanon (8-11-1) This will be an intriguing season for coach Gary Smith’s group as it transitions from a younger team to a more balanced, veteran squad. Replacing graduated First Team All-State goalie Joe Grout is a tall order. Junior Ryan Dube and sophomore Chad Fazio are the top candidates.

Defense projects as a strength, built around rugged senior captain Tanner Simms. Senior Jack Whitaker and juniors Nate Kriplin and Noah Gaudette complete that group. Senior captain Ryan Damren (10-10-20) leads a forward group that includes slick sophomore Nate Garipey (7-17-24).

Seniors Cameron Broughton and Riley Sleeper and juniors Brendan Kelley, TJ Barber, Nick Haidair, Cam Perron, Tony Vaitkunas and Cormac Coyle, and sophomore Nate Damren return with experience.

PembroKe/CamPbeLL The good news for coach Marc Noel is that he will have a full roster this winter.

Nevertheless, it will be a rebuilding campaign as 10 freshmen will be suiting up and learning on the job.

Senior goaltender Shane Mailhott will provide a stalwart last line of defense and junior captain Trevor Roche will be counted on for leadership both on and off the ice.

production from senior forward Josh Grasso and junior forwards Austin Chasse, Sam Bonenfant and Owan Gonya. Senior Owen Richard projects as the top defenseman. There will be ongoing competition in the pre-season to determine the top goaltender.

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DecemBer 10, 2014

New HampsHire Hs preview

Solid Veteran Cast For Goffstown Somersworth/Coe Turns To Lausberg

Goffstown (13-6-0) The Grizzlies welcome back a solid veteran core poised to move into contention for the division crown. Coach Paul Roy says his hard-working group will need to improve on special teams.

Top returnees include senior captain Connor Easton and junior keeper Colin Holt.

Mason Mable, Ian Gately and Sam Greenwood will all be counted on for solid contributions while big things are expected from sophomore defensemen Nick Nault and Oliver Gunski. somerswortH/Coe Brown (6-10-0) New coach Bryant Lausberg takes over a young team with only five seniors that will learn as it goes. The immediate goal is to develop strong team chemistry and solid leadership.

Top returnees include junior defenseman Cole Gagne, junior forward Will Ohrenberger (3-17-20), junior forward Ryan Bailey, and rugged sophomore forward Tucker Arnold, the owner of a booming shot.

Sophomore Casey Pridham missed all but seven games last year due to injury and is projected as a top six forward.

Two players are vying for the goaltending job.

Hollis/Brookline DerryfielD HB returns with a new co-op arrangement after a year spent playing a junior varsity schedule. The Warriors will be under the direction of former Merrimack High School coach Kurt Mithoefer.

Mithoefer aims to quickly build team unity and chemistry while stressing a physical style.

Stout defense and system execution will be the key to success as the Warriors seek to prove themselves to be a postseason contender right out of the gate.

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NeW HAmpSHiRe HS pRevieW keeNe (5-11-2) A last-minute loss in the season finale knocked the Blackbirds out of post-season consideration last year. Now a year older and more experienced, coach Kyle Macie is confident his club can turn last year’s close losses into wins and take the next step this winter.

Senior captains Mark Rodenhauser (F), Collin Stroshine (D) and Peter Brown (G) return as team leaders. Sophomore forward Jason Langevin led the team in scoring as a freshman. Developing secondary scoring is a priority and the Blackbirds should be bolstered by an ample influx of talent from the Keene Youth Hockey Midget team. sPauldiNg (15-5-0) The Red Raiders return a large contingent from last year’s semifinal squad that ripped off nine straight wins to open the season.

Coach Paul George says continued growth in all phases will make Spaulding a tough club to contend with.

Justin Jewell (14-19-33), Zander Allen (15-16-31) and Kyle Carignan (11-16-27) supply plenty of firepower on the forward line.

Experienced defensemen Kam Kondrup (10 points) and Alex Turgeon (5-10-15) will be joined by newcomer Ashton Langis. The goaltending job was still being contested during pre-season. wiNNacuNNet (3-15-0) New coach Chris Myers is looking forward to the season and has a single goal in mind – for the Warriors to play with energy and dedication and up to their ability in all three zones.

Top returnees are senior forwards Rob Warren, Casey McGlynn and Mike Filaunt, senior defensemen Larry Fournier, Blake Wasson and Matt Dzialo, and junior goaltender Morgan McGirl.

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13 Return At Timberlane

Division II Preview

Zander Allen Spaulding

Jason Langevin Keene

Ryan Downie Merrimack

Matt Brewster Merrimack

Beau Arsenault Portsmouth/Newmarket

John Witkowski Portsmouth/Newmarket

Spaulding Will Be A Force New Coaches At Winnacunnet, Merrimack merrimack (11-9-0) New coach Matt Davis inherits a solid veteran nucleus supplemented by a large influx of freshmen class. The Tomahawks are solid on the back line and in goal and Davis is confident they will be an upper tier club.

Senior Matt Brewster returns in goal backed by freshman Greg Amato.

Seniors Jason Fortin and Aidan O’Brien provide blue line protection.

Senior Shane Foye, juniors Ryan Downie and Aaron Tupper and sophs Tucker Twardosky and Jeff Gerhard form the nucleus of a deep forward group. Defensemen Kyle Robbins, Tyler Tiano, Isaiah Kepnes and Greg Bourque and forwards Alex Whitney, Hunter Burke and Josh Bartholomew are all freshmen to watch.

Good Group Back At OR Oyster river (8-10-1) It could be tough for opponents to find the back of the net this season against Oyster River. Coach Griff Richards’ club returns substantial experience and leadership.

Start with senior captain Casey Aubin (10 points), senior Mike Titterington, and junior Grif Snow, all defensemen. Senior goalie Mike Doyon (2.59 gaa, .910 save pct.) looks to build off a strong junior campaign. Senior captain and forward Jordan Petrovitsis (18-23-41) and sophomore Zak Lanoue (5-9-14) provide a strong foundation for the offense. Junior Porter McManus also returns with experience.

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the action all season long!

timberlaNe (3-17-0) Second-year coach Steve Costa is looking for the Owls to play a disciplined style and to move back into the playoff picture. Thirteen players return with experience and ready to take positive strides.

There is depth at forward with seniors Brian Roberts and Tim McLaughlin and juniors Sean Crowley, Alex Passafiume and Scott Berthel all back. Senior Doug Vailancourt and juniors Jared Spang and Ryan Lewis form the defensive nucleus in front of senior goalie Chris Leondires and junior keeper Aaron Smith. Depth will come from a large group of underclassmen.

Clippers To Test Division II Waters POrtsmOuthNewmarket (11-5-1) Following the most successful season in program history, the Clippers have entered into a new co-op arrangement and bumped up a division. Coach Al Brandano plans to roll three lines and believes qualifying for playoffs in their first D2 season is an attainable goal. A bevy of veterans return and will be supplemented by a large contingent from Newmarket.

The forward unit is dynamic and features seniors Andrew Trout, Spenser Young and special teams whiz Jack Williamson; juniors Jack Alden, Jack Spitzer and John Witkowski; and sophomore Beau Arsenault.

Junior Luke LaCroce and sophomore Oscar Kozikowski are top defensemen. Replacing standout graduated goalie Brady Marchewka is a top pre-season priority.

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New HaMpsHire Hs preview

Sabers Have Explosive Offense

Divison III Overview

Souhegan (18-2-0) If the reigning State Champion Sabers’ offense could be described as explosive last year, then this year’s version may well be downright combustible. Despite graduating eight seniors, including two-year captain Mike Hayden, coach Danny Beliveau’s club remains the team to beat.

That forward unit will feature the high-powered quartet of seniors Matt Wilson (21-13-34) and Alec Medic (14-14-28), junior Joe Nutting (24-2650) and sophomore James Wilson (16-12-28). Junior Robbie Duart and sophomores Kevin O’Brien and Patrick McGrath add veteran experience.

Senior Alex Maresco (4-7-11) and junior Jon Erlich return as the top pair on defense. The open goaltending job was to be settled during pre-season.

Defending Champs Souhegan, JSH Pick Up Right Where They Left Off

Justin Vien Berlin

Brenden Williams Berlin

Owen Dorval Berlin

Berlin Looks For More Balance Berlin (17-3-0) The Mountaineers begin Life after Connor Jewett this season and will seek to offset the Player of the Year’s prolific scoring by developing more balance up front. Talented junior Justin Vien stands ready to assume the role as the top forward while sophomore Owen Dorval looks to build on a strong freshman campaign. Freshmen John Arguin, Hunter Fauteux and Cam Cochoran should step right in.

The defense will be built around junior goalie Brenden Williams, senior defenseman Blake Leborgne and junior defenseman Nathan Trull. Look for freshman Noah Schoenbeck to make an immediate contribution on the back line.

John Stark / hopkinton (13-7-1) Coach Denis Kolehmainen has the luxury of nine returning seniors who will form the nucleus as the Generals seek a third straight State title game appearance. The JSH attack could be tough to contain with seniors Robbie Ferguson, Kyle Kolehmainen, Peter Sawitsky, Ryan Hawkes, Nolan Quinn and Adrian McCarthy-Tiella all back.

Senior keeper Josh Gagne is the anchor on defense, fronted by veteran classmates Cooper Bourque and Scott Olson. Newcomers expected to provide depth include senior defenseman Daniel Medvetz, freshman rearguard Nick Gagne, and freshman forward Joel Hawkes.

MancheSter WeSt (0-16-0) It’s an ongoing learning process for the Blue Knights under coach Matt Thompson, whose modest goals include basic skills development, team building and instilling discipline all while enjoying the game.

Senior forward Zach Allard, junior forward Greg Laurent and junior defenseman Talia Cote are the top returnees. Nine players have little or no previous hockey experience.

By kevin Doyle • hniB news

I

t should come as no surprise that reigning State Champion Souhegan and 2014 finalist John Stark-Hopkinton start this season in the same order they finished a year ago. Both were stocked with productive underclassmen.

No. 1 Souhegan (18-2-0) returns a quartet of forwards who combined for 75 goals and 140 points a year ago, led by junior Joe Nutting (24-26-50).

No. 2 JSh (12-7-1) graduated only one and will be seeking its third straight title game appearance. Nine seniors return, including senior Josh Gagne.

Senior All-State defenseman Brogan Hurst and a balanced forward unit will lead No. 3 Belmont/gilford (16-4-0), a 2014 semifinalist.

Also a 2014 semifinalist, No. 4 Berlin (17-3-0) starts the transition from the Connor Jewett Era with junior Justin Vien and sopho-

more Owen Dorval in leading roles.

After years as one of the division’s most free-wheeling offensive clubs, No. 5 kennett (8-11-0) will adopt a defense-first approach this winter.

Look for No. 6 kearsage (2-102) to be much-improved with the return of players from the Junior Hockey ranks.

New to the division this year is Sanborn Regional, coached by Kevin Merrick.

HNIB NEW HAMPSHIRE DIVISION III POLL TEAM

WLT

1. Souhegan 18 2. JohnStark/Hopk 12 3. Belmont/Gilford 16 4. Berlin 17 5. Kennett 8 6. Kearsage 2 7. Laconia/Winnis. 7 8. Moultonboro/IL 3

2 7 4 3 11 10 12 14

0 1 0 0 0 2 0 1

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DecemBer 10, 2014

New HampsHire Hs preview

Talented Returning Core Buoys Bulldogs belMont-gIlford (16-4-0) For coach Jay Londer, the key to continued success for last year’s semifinalist is clear – the Bulldogs must avoid penalties while competing for 45 minutes each and every night. A talented core of returning veterans will lead the way.

Senior Brogan Hurst, an All-State first team selection, anchors the defense and will be joined in the back by senior Nikolai Fernandes. Junior Caleb Drouin (31 points) and senior Andrew D’Amour (27 points) project as one of the division’s top forward duos. Junior Dylan Treamer (17 points) also returns while the freshman foursome of Miles Defosses, Hunter Dupuis, Harrison Parent and Owen Ramey could make an immediate impact.

Kennett (8-11-0) The Eagles will take on a decidedly defensive posture this winter as they look to offset the graduation loss of more than 50 percent of their offensive production. Returning senior keeper Josh Kondrat was an All-State first team pick a year ago and will again share time with fellow senior Bobby Davis.

Senior Robby Moody anchors the defense. He and returning junior Dan Nusbaum will be counted on for increased offensive production. Freshman Kenzie Murphy figures to have an impact on the back line. Junior Nick Ansaldi returns as the top forward, supported by a young core of forwards including Colby Couture.

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Kearsage (2-10-2) The Cougars will be bolstered by the return of senior forwards Tristan Rowe and Matt Pickham, who spent last winter with the Junior Monarchs’ organization after excelling as Cougars’ sophomores. Doug Breault, a junior forward who recently moved to the region, adds a physical presence.

Sophomore forwards Jakob Arnold (4-6-10) and Caleb Cochran will look to build on solid freshman campaigns. Senior Ryan Beattie and junior Duncan MacIntyre (8-4-12) return with experience on the blue line.

Coach Mike Fisher is looking for a big year from returning goaltender Cody Rowe.

Moultonboro/InterlaKes (3-14-1) The Renegades will lean on a solid veteran nucleus as they look to move into the playoff picture. Coach Chuck Yaeger said team commitment to a solid work ethic must be the foundation of success.

Junior forward Cody Burns could emerge as one of the division’s premier forwards after pumping in 14 goals and 30 points a year ago. Senior defenseman Dylan Sheehan (10 goals) is an offensive force while junior Gus Kromer and sophomore Collin Sheehan return with experience at forward.

Newcomers include junior defenseman Evan Candage, freshman forward Garrett McCarthy and freshman goalie Nick Spicuzza.

* More New HaMpsHire D-3

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coverage

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Page 15

Maine HS Preview

• Class A Overview •

By Nathan Fournier • HNIB News

I

s a three-peat in order?

Everyone in Class A will be chasing the two time defending Class A Champions, the Falmouth Yachtsmen. Head coach Deron Barton knows there's a target on their back and will have his kids prepared for that.

“Our schedule consists of opponents that need to be respected every night,” Falmouth coach Deron Barton said. “In a single game elimination tournament the teams that get in the habit of playing all three periods with have the advantage come playoffs.”

He brings back a solid core including Isac Nordstrom, as the Swede had 48 points as a junior last year. On the blue line Jake Grade had 28 points and Reece Armitage had 22 points.

Coaches in the West believe both Cheverus, Thornton Academy and Biddeford will both make a resurgence this year.

“In the West, Falmouth should be the clear cut favorite, and Biddeford should be right behind them,” Scarborough coach Norm

Chase Is On To Dethrone Falmouth

THE FALMOUTH YACHTSMEN celebrate their second straight Maine Class A title this past March. (Photo by Ron Morin, Jr.)

Gagne said. “Cheverus should be good along with Thornton Academy.We hope to be battling for spots somewhere in the middle of the pack.”

Noble/Wells, who made it to the regional semifinals by giving Falmouth a scare, brings back key pieces from last year's team and could find themselves back at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston. Another co-op team that could find themselves in the playoffs is Lake Region/Oxford Hills/Fryeburg Academy as they had an 8-8 record last year. m Ryan Bonnvie Isac Nordstro th “A strong group of returning ou Fa lm lmouth Fa players but chemistry continues to be a focal point when three teams combine,” said coach Dave FALMOuTH (19-3-0) Lepage. “Hard work is necessary The two-time defending Class A State Champions look to go for a threefor us to compete day in day out peat and they bring back some key cogs. and we have to believe in ourselves Isac Nordstrom is the top returning scorer as he had 48 points in his junas a team unit; not a group of indiior campaign. Jake Grade put up 28 points as a defenseman last season. viduals.”

Reece Armitage and Hunter Low are two sophomores that put up points Rivals Portland/Deering and in their freshman years.

South Portland/Freeport/WaynThey will have to replace Dane Pauls in net, but junior keeper Ryan flete will be teams that should finBonnvie has experience.

Key Cogs Back For Yachtsmen

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the action all season long!

ish in a playoff spot. Westbrook, Marshwood/Traip and Massabesic/Bonny Eagle/Old Orchard Beach will try to improve from last year's record.

In the East, it will be the usual suspects trying to knock of the West in St. Dominic Academy, Lewiston and Bangor. Western Class A teams have won the last five state championships and nine out of the last ten. The lone Eastern Class A team to win a championship was Waterville in 2009. The have since moved to Class B. Bangor which has fell to either Lewiston or St. Dom's last few seasons in the playoffs hopes a strong core on offense will get them over the hump.

Bangor's key to success will be staying out of the penalty box and playing strong defense,” Bangor coach Quinn Paradis said. Bangor's starting goalie is a sophomore (Derek Fournier) and has seen some varsity time last year will need team play in the defensive end to have success. Scoring will come from three strong lines that did not graduate anyone from last season.

MAINE CLASS A POLL TEAM

W L T

1. Falmouth 17 2. St. Dom’s 10 3. Bangor 17 4. Scarborough 17 5. Lewiston 15 6. Biddeford 10 7. Noble/Wells 15 8. Cheverus 9 9. Lawrence/Skow. 12 10. Edward Little 10

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5 8 3 6 5 8 5 9 7 8

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DecemBer 10, 2014

Maine HS Preview

Class a West PrevieW Portland/dEEring (6-12-0) Portland/Deering is looking to build off last season and battle for a playoff spot in Western Class A. Offensively they will be led by senior Curran Clere and junior Zach Fortin. Portland/Deering has a solid core of sophomores in Brent Rickett, Dominic Tocci, and Mason Martell. Defensively, senior Ryan Ruhlin will log some key minutes along with sophomores Pete Barry and Will Herboldsheimer. south Portland (12-8-0) South Portland can be a dark horse in Western A as they have three players who know how to put the puck in the back of the net.

Andrew Whipple potted 22 goals and 28 assists in 20 contests. Kyle Halverson notched 17 goals and 16 assists while Chris Mitchell lit the lamp 11 times and added 12 assists. WIll McMullin is the top returning defenseman.

Eric Profenno Thornton Acad.

Hunter Ebling Thornton Acad.

Dayton Wintle Thornton Acad.

Thornton Looks To Challenge thornton acadEMy (7-10-1) After spending the last couple of years in a rebuild mode, Thornton looks to challenge for the Western Class A title again. They return a veteran netminder in Andrew Huot.

Up front three juniors will help the offensive production in Owen Elliott, Logan Picard and Tanner McFarren. Eric Profenno and Jimmy Remmes will be two seniors that will also provide some offense. Hunter Ebling and Dayton Wintle will provide veteran leadership on the back end. noBlE/WElls (15-5-0) Noble/Wells looks to repeat on their success from last season where they gave the eventual Class A State Champions Falmouth all they can handle in the Western A semifinals.

They have the pieces for a return trip to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in March. Dean Pratt had 30 goals and 21 assists and Ryan Marsh had 15 goals and 27 assists last year. Wyatt Ricker returns in goal after posting a 2.56 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage.

BiddEford (10-8-1) As the adage goes you win from the net out and that's what the Tigers are banking on this year.

Brandon Daigle is a senior netminder and one of the team's captains.

His fellow captain Evan Loignon will keep the pucks clear for Daigle as he brings experience on the blue line. Up front Kerry Crepeau, Brady Crepeau and Ricky Ruck will provide the offense. The team has 11 underclassmen on the roster

and they will get better as the season goes on.

Ricky Ruck Biddeford

Another Co-Op Forms In Maine Bonny EaglE-MassBEsic-old orchard BEach This is happening more and more each year as two teams combine to make one team. Bonny Eagle and Massbesic/Old Orchard Beach have combined forces.

Like Biddeford they have veteran leadership from the net out. Matt Bridges is a senior goaltender. They will rely on two senior defensemen in Justin Miles and Kyle Whitman. Upfront they will rely on underclassmen Tanner McClure and Cam Roy.

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Maine HS Preview

Class a West PrevieW

Blue Blazers Hungry For Success weStbrook (4-15-1) The Westbrook Blue Blazers will be a young and hungry squad. Junior Kyle Paul and sophomore Matt Kelley will be looked upon to provide the offense. Jacob Coro and Greg Buotte are both juniors coming off injuries that held them out all of last season.

Alex LeBlanc will see a lot of minutes this season for Westbrook. The big thing is they will have Mike Carmody back as coach. It's the first time in five seasons a coach is returning for a second season.

Lake region/oxford hiLLS/fryeburg academy (8-8-0) The Ice Cats showed improvement last year and hope to improve even more this season. Dave Lepage has a veteran squad back this season especially on defense where he has four upperclassmen on the roster. Davis Turner and Noah Smith are both seniors while Kaleb Currier and Nick Lepage are juniors.

Up front the Ice Cats will be led by juniors Travis Townsend and Mason LaPlante. In goal sophomore David Long will see majority of the action. cheveruS (9-9-1) The Cheverus Stags will rely heavily on their senior class this year as they look to be one of the top teams in Western A. James Hannigan and Keegan Thomas will be the two guys offensively while James Kane and Matt O'Leary will be the veterans on the blue line.

Coach Dan Lucas hopes a strong defense and depth among the forwards will be the key ingredients to a successful season.

Lawrence Academy • Groton MA Co-ed • Boarding and Day Students Grades 9–12 Financial assistance is available.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact the admissions office at 978–448–1530 or admiss@lacademy.edu.

For directions, visit us online at www.lacademy.edu.

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Red Storm In The Mix Scarborough (17-6-1) The Red Storm who have been one of the two favorites the last two seasons in Western A will be a younger squad this season but will be in the conversation for one of the top teams in the conference at the end of the year.

They are another veteran-laden squad on defense with senior Kevin Smith and juniors Jack Callahan and Sean McDonald. They will be

joined by sophomores Eric Murray and Justin Perry Ben Bragg will be one of the better goaltenders in Class A. Up front Sean McGovern, senior, and juniors Matt Caron and Cam Nigro will be the primary options to provide the offense. Cam Smith, Skylar Pettingill and Kyle Jacques are new to the squad this year and will be secondary options on offense.

Class a east PrevieW

Lewiston Strength Lies On Defense LewiSton (14-4-0) The Blue Devils’ strength this season will be on defense as they return senior Joe Frechette, junior Brady Cusson and sophomore Cole Ouellette. Senior transfer Jon Sturgis from St. Dom's will bring another veteran presence on defense.

Lewiston will have to replace the offense of Kyle Lemelin, who won the Travis Roy Award as the top senior in Class A. Kyle Morin will look to fill those shoes as he enters his senior year. Kyle Ulrich, Brandon Croteau, Griffin Wade and Jake Iacono are all seniors who

should have an impact offensively.

Nick Hawk and Sam Zashut are two returning goalies that should solify the Blue Devils’ net.

Joe Frechette Lewiston

cony/monmouth (9-8-1) The Cony/Monmouth Rams will have to replace some key losses in Zach Gagne and Austin Davis as both have graduated.

Junior Anthony Brunelle will try to replace the offensive production along with Dakota Benson and Drew Keithley.

The Rams do return a veteran in goal in Tom Small. He has the experience and could steal a few games for Cony/Monmouth this season. edward LittLe (10-7-1) The Red Eddies have 12 returners from the squad that lost in the Eastern Maine Class A quarterfinals to the Class A runner-up St. Dominic Academy.

Branden Dyer and Liam Benson should be the offensive catalyst for EL. Cade Chapman will bring stability on the blue line while Zach Gosselin will see the bulk of the action in goal.

the action all season long!

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Page 19

MAine HS Preview

Bangor A Strong Contender Again

Class A East Preview

Bryan Bonenfant St. Dom’s

St. Dom’s Has Unfinished Business st. Dom's (10-8-1) The Saints are poised to get back to the state game this year as they fell 3-2 in overtime to Falmouth.

They have the depth in goal with juniors Alex Michaud and Ridge Servidio. They also have Kyle Welsh coming in as a sophomore.

They also have the firepower with seniors Brad Berube and Caleb Labrie who had 31 and 30 points respectfully. Austin Roy and Dillon Pratt will also be contributors on offense along with Leavitt transfer Adam Poulin.

The Saints return Mitch Lorenz and Matt Chasse as their top two defensemen while Bryan Bonenfant and Chris Laverdiere also bring experience at the back end.

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Bangor (17-3-0) The Rams will once again be a contender in Eastern Class A. Up front they have five seniors that will be offensive contributors in Nick Graham, Jake Fournier, Owen Trundy, Sam Kenny and Andrew Elston. Joining them is junior Trevor DeLaite.

Sam Huston will a key cog on the blue line as he helps newcomer Nick Cowperthwaite transition to the varsity level. Sophomore Derek Fournier saw five games in goal last year coach Quinn Paradis looks for him to see more playing time this season.

BrunsWick (9-7-2) The Dragons look to be in the mix for a playoff spot in Eastern A. New coach Bill Bodwell will look to his seniors TJ Sullivan, Jared Parent and Jacob McGowan up front and junior defenseman Nate Granholm to help the young players get up to speed.

Jared Hummer, Andrew Eno and Max Burtis will be new additions on defense while Michael Deveaux will be a secondary scoring option as a forward.

mt. ararat/LisBon (9-9-0) Mt. Ararat/Lisbon will look to earn a playoff berth in Eastern A this year. At the forward spot they will be led

by Ben Bishop who had seven goals and ten assists as a junior. Kyle Lussier and Tyler Halls will be two others that head coach Mike Bishop will look to provide some offense.

Bishop is also excited about Steven Schuman and Austin Fournier's offensive skill set as new players.

Tyler O'Connor, Ryley Austin and Andrew Gardiner will provide stablity on defense.

LaWrence/skoWhegan (12-6-0) Another team that is returning a bulk of talent from last year is Lawrence/Skowhegan.

Andrew Carpenter, who's in his second season as captain, is one of 18 players coming back.

Coach Ted Fabian still expects everybody to earn their ice time this season. They are still relatively young in goal with two sophomores in Broch Dostie and Curtis Martin.

WinDham (6-11-1) The Windham Eagles are bringing back ten players from last year's squad. They have a favorable schedule this year where they can battle for a playoff spot in Eastern A. Clayton Owens has experience in goal as this will be his fourth season in goal. Zack Callahan is the top returner in terms of scoring as he had 18 goals and six assists. poLanD/gray neW gLoucester/oak hiLL (4-13-1) The 26ers add another school to the Co-op program in Oak Hill which is a town just outside of Lewiston.

Coach Travis Jalbert will be looking from production from forwards Ethan Cailler and Ryan Lavoie who are entering their senior years. Sophomores Jason Cote and Deryk Belanger are expected to provide some secondary scoring. Oak Hill's Conor Drouin and Bailey Drouin will also be apart of the secondary scoring.

Isaiah Dubois will a leader on defense while goaltender Nick Hemond ate up minutes last year and looks to do the same this winter.

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maranacook/Winthrop/haLL-DaLe (7-11-0) Maranacook/Winthrop/Hall-Dale will a young squad as second year man at the helm Chip Jones said he has a lot of promising freshmen and sophomores coming in this year.

Bailey Clark will be the forward to watch while Zachary Phinney is a defenseman to keep an eye out.

Jones hopes his players can work as a team. They will be a team fighting for a playoff spot come mid February.

• NH Division III •

Wolfpack Shoot For Post-Season Laconia-Winnisquam (7-12-0) Coach TJ Galligan will look for the upperclassmen to lead the way as the Wolfpack shoot for a post-season return. Senior goalie Brayden Harriman will backstop the effort, looking to build on his Second Team All-State campaign of a year ago.

Junior forwards Jordan Audette and Jack Decormier are expected to lead the defense while Ryan Smith returns as the top defenseman. Freshman forward Nick Schneider has experience in the Monarchs’ program and is ready to step right in.

Noah Wirth is another freshman forward poised to make an immediate contribution.

the action all season long!

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DecemBer 10, 2014

Maine HS Preview

• Class B Overview •

Western Region Boasts Several Strong Clubs

T

By Nathan Fournier • HNIB News

he Wild, Wild West. That seems the theme for Western Class B heading into the 2014-15 season with five teams with a legitimate chance to win the conference.

“Yarmouth, Cape Elizabeth, Camden Hills, York, Kennebunk and defending West B Champion Gorham should all be teams to be reckoned with and could all see themselves as top-tier teams,” Greely head coach Barry Mothes said.

The Gorham Rams made the move down to Class B last season and had instant success. They bring some of the core back from last year's squad. The secondary options on last year's team like Carl Bear will be one of the primary options this season.

“Graduation claimed five of six starters from last season but some key components to last years success return,” Gorham coach Jon Portwine said. “Add in a few talented freshmen and the Rams should be ready to reload and make another playoff run.

York, which had success for a few years, had a hiccup last season, but is poised to have a bounce back year.

“Keys will be improving our defense and increasing scoring from the second and third lines,” York coach Michel Vessey said.

Cape Elizabeth, Yarmouth and Kennebunk coaches all said to be successful this season is to be strong on defense and the penalty kill.

Leavitt, Maranacook/Winthrop/Hall-Dale, and Gardiner will all battle for the final playoff spots and don't expect them to be pushovers. “(A) very young league, should be an open race,” Kennebunk coach Sean Smith said. “There is a lot of parity and which ever teams get hot at the right time should take the conference.”

In the East, it should be a tighter race with the Class B state champion Messalonskee losing a few key pieces due to graduation. They will also have a new coach in Joe Hague as Mike Latendresse took an assis-

tant coaching job with the Colby College's men hockey team.

Rivals Waterville and Winslow are expected to challenge the defending champions as both teams haven't lost much from last year's teams.

MAINE CLASS B POLL TEAM 1. Messalonskee 2. Camden Hills 3. Gorham 4. Presque Isle 5. Yarmouth 6. Waterville 7. York 8. Kennebunk 9. Greely 10. Winslow

W L T 21 18 17 13 11 11 6 11 10 9

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Maine HS Preview

Cape Elizabeth, Gorham Will Be In The Battle

Class B West

Cape elizabeth (7-10-1) The Cape Elizabeth Capers are expected to compete for the Western Class B Title. They will rely on two senior wingers, Curtis Guimond (28 pts) and Jack Drinan (27 pts) Sophomore Ben Ekedahl should provide secondary scoring as he had four goals and five assists as a freshman. Eli Babcock will be a key cog on the back end for the Capers.

Gorham (17-4-0) The Gorham Rams made a splash in their first year in Western Class B as they won the regional championship. They are poised to defend their title again as they bring a solid core back.

Jordan Ward, Michael Chapin and Travis Mansir will bring senior leadership. Junior Carl Bear will look to have a breakout year this winter.

GreelY (10-8-3) After winning back-to-back Class B State Championships in 2012 and 2013, the Rangers had a roller coaster season last year. They will be young but talented.

In net, Kyle Kramlich returns as a four year starter. He will be a calming presence and will be able to steal a game or two throughout the year.

John Wright is a senior defender and will joined by newcomers Nick Caputo and Ryan Sullivan. Andrew Ray had ten goals and five assists as a freshman. Junior Nathan Gervais chipped in with five goals and seven assists last year.

The core of forwards are sophomores in Dylan Fried, Ryan Megathlin, Jack Saffian and Coby Robinson.

Senior-Laden York Will Improve York (6-12-0) The Wildcats have a lot of talent in their senior class. Derek Neal, Jim Orso, Adam Jannetti, Dillon Goslin, Matt Abruzzese, and Matt Wacker are forwards that will lead the underclassman. They have three senior defensemen in Nick Walsh, Brendan Carney and Conall Anderson.

They are also have depth within the sophomore class in forwards Nick Giles, Henry McAddin and Tucker Fegan while on defense there's Colin Palmer. In goal, Eric Lindbom has plenty experience

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going into his final high school hockey season and will be a mentor for freshman Keenan Gamache.

Joe Mooney Kennebunk

Luke Noonan Camden Hills

Camden Hills A Contender Camden hills (18-5-2) The Windjammers lost some offensive production from last year's squad, but that won't stop them from being a contender in Western Class B. Senior Simon Lydon had 12 goals and 20 assists last year while James Annis had 15 goals and seven assists. Expect those two be the top two options this season up front. Jonah Cameron and Kieran Lydon are good secondary options.

Camden Hills is another team with veterans on defense with senior Luke Noonan while Nick Czuchra, Nick Tassoni and Matt Prescott are juniors. In goal they have experience in juniors Jet Magri and Zach Hand. Look for Karl Enroth to use them both this year

Kennebunk Could Be A Sleeper kennebunk (11-7-1) Kennebunk has a sold junior core that will help the Rams try to make a deep playoff run this season. Forwards Bo Beveridge, Donovan Conne, Pat Gassman and James Ross will contribute offensively along with seniors Dave Parker, Jack Graydon and Czech exchange student Jan Rurtle.

Defensively junior Joe Mooney will clog up minutes with sophomore Miles Eaton. Mike LeBlanc will be the number one goaltender for the Rams.

Yarmouth Will Be A Tough Opponent

Colin Palmer York

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Yarmouth (11-7-1) Patrick Grant provided a lot of offense last season as a sophomore as the playmaking forward had nine goals and 28 assists in 19 games. He will have a lot of options to dish the puck in senior Dylan Tureff and sophomore Bill Jacobs.

Head coach David St. Pierre expects newcomers Bennett Travers, Chris Romano and Cooper May to contribute offensively. Walter Conrad and Brian Travers will be the backbone of the defensive unit while Victor Wakelin and Nick Allen will split time in net. the action all season long!

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Maine HS Preview

Class B East

Presque Isle Seeks Finals Return

Riley Eastman Hampden Acad.

Hampden Academy Excited To Get Going HamPden academy (8-6-2) The Broncos have two key cogs on the back end in seniors Riley Eastman and Ryan Cole. They bring veteran presence in front of sophomore goaltender Cole Benner.

Up front Dylan Cray will try to help the Broncos to build off a playoff appearance where they fell to Waterville 5-2. in the quarterfinal round.

Sophomore Mark Thibodeau will also expected to contribute offensively.

• Defending Class B State Champ Messalonskee has a new coach in Joe Hague. No info was available as of press-time.

Presque Isle (13-6-1) The Wildcats lost two key pieces from last year's team in Tyler Seeley and Andrew Michaud, What they do return is Alex Michaud who has already tallied 100 points in his first three years in the high school ranks.

Head coach Carl Fynn will also look at Joseph Patenaude and Daniel Boucher for offense as they try to return to the Eastern Maine finals. In goal, the Wildcats have two juniors in Jillian Flynn and Oliver Gerrish who will both see time in net. On the backend the Wildcats are on the young side with Denny Young and Eric Benson. watervIlle (11-8-1) The Purple Panthers battled all season last year for second place as Messalonskee ran away with the Eastern Class B title and the State Championship. They expect to be in the thick of things again this season.

Nick Denis scored 23 times last year and added 12 assists. Michael Oliveira added seven goals and set up his teammates 13 times. Andrew Roderigue will provide offense on the blue line as he had six goals and ten assists. wInslow (9-9-0) The Black Raiders have a tight group according to head coach Andy Dube. The players have been playing together for a longtime. The team will be led by Alex Berard, Jacob Larsen, Jacob Trask, Jimmy Fowler and Andrew Beals.

Orono/Old Town Should Be Better orono/old town (2-16) Head coach Denis Collins’ team was a thorn in their opponents sides last year, but they didn't have the results to show for it. Collins likes his depth at defense with Tyler Byther leading the way as a

senior. He also has talented underclassmen in sophomores Austin Sheehan, Jacob Gallon and junior Lucas Shorette.

He also expects them to contribute offensively. They will have two lines of upperclassmen in Damien Spencer, Seamus McKaig and Darin Gardner. Also expected to provide offense are Makayla Brown, Chris Hoxie, Lance Roy and Cam Sullivan. Juniors Chase Albert and John Kenneway will both see time in goal.

Sam Lander John Bapst

Crusaders Start With New Coach JoHn BaPst (10-10-0) The John Bapst Crusaders are under new leadership as Andy Stephenson takes over as head coach. He will rely on seniors Hunter Pate and Jackson Leonard for offensive production along with juniors Nate Reese and Logan Ellis.

Sam Lander will log plenty of minutes in goal for his final year of eligibility.

Brewer Ready Brewer The Witches look to bounce back from an off year. Gabe Valley, Kyle Spox, Caleb Eggert and Dylan Severance will be the key offensive pieces up front. Joining them are newcomers Joshua Pellegrin, Jack Waktins and Riley Kenney.

On the back end Trey Wood and Jack Schroder are the veterans with Kyle Webb being a newcomer. In goal, Tyler Friel returns and Drew Baker will also see playing time.

Houlton/Hodgdon (1-17-0) The Black Hawks have a lot of youth this year and they hope to use it to their advantage. They will have four freshmen on the team in forwards Drew Marino, Brandon Dunn and Abe Lorom and Nick DeLucca on defense.

Defenseman Josh Malone enters his sophomore year after spending his freshman year on the varsity squad. Up front Cam Clark and Rachel Harmon will provide veteran leadership as seniors. Coach Tony Marino knows his players won't give up no matter who the opponent is this season.

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VERMonT HS PREViEw

South Burlington, Essex Deemed Metro Favorites

By Dom nicastro • hniB news

C

hamplain Valley Union was dominant last year -- all the way to the state title in the Vermont Metro Division. This year? CVU looks pretty good.

Good enough for No. 1 in our preseason poll? We say no. Senior goalie Greg Talbert (19 wins, give shutouts, 1.08 GAA last winter) is a huge returnee for the champs, but they also lost many more to graduation.

We’re going with the 2013 champions for this top spot -- south Burlington.

Sure, South Burlington did not make the finals last year and finished 12-9. But we like the way they look on paper heading into the 2014-2015 season,

and a lot of coaches agree with us.

“South Burlington and BFA should dominate in the first half of the season, and CVU and Essex will make noise in the second half as they gain more experience,” said Colchester coach Greg Murray.

We’re not going to go exactly according to Murray’s plans. We are going to give the second spot in our preseason poll to essex (16-22). They return Brendan Gleason, senior forward, Joey Robertson, senior forward and Zac Godin, also a senior forward. It’s a trio that’s likely to scare some opposing defenses.

BFa st. albans gets the call at No. 3. The team went 13-6-2 last year and was simply a pest on

everyone’s schedule. They just edge out defending champs champlain Valley union which takes the No. 4 spot in our poll.

“CVU will be looking to lean on their veteran goalie, and solid defensive corps to compete,” Rice Memorial coach Leonard Badeau said. “Essex looks to be the favorite, with South Burlington and BFA returning much of their squads from last season. Spaulding will be competitive as well as their young roster grows and matures.” spaulding closes out the top five Metro teams. Captains Matt Blouin, Logan Safford and Ben Evans, all defensemen, and goalie Justin Laperle, return to lead the way. We’re giving them the nod

HNIB VERMONT POLL METRO DIVISION 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

TEAM W So. Burlington12 Essex 16 BFA-St. Alb. 13 CVU 20 Spaulding 3

L 9 2 6 1 13

T 0 2 2 2 4

here despite the fact they finished with a subpar 3-13-4 record last winter.

“Essex, Spaulding and BFA will lead the way followed by a number of teams that can win on any given night,” South Burlington coach Sean Jones said.

Rebels Ready To Mount Serious Challenge south BuRlington (12-9-0) The South Burlington Rebels, winners of the crown two years ago, return to the ice this season after a 12-9 campaign.

Senior goalie Ben Greenstein is back along with Peter Camardo, senior defenseman, Kyle Vock, junior defenseman, Kyle McDonald, senior forward, and Brendan Lahue, a junior forward.

Jones said it’s too early to tell which newcomers will contribute.

“We have the skill and experience to make a run,” Jones said. “Our success will be dependent on how well we come together as a team.” chaMplain Valley union (20-1-2) The defending state champs are back. And so is their goalie. Senior netminder Greg Talbert (19 wins,1.08 GAA last winter) returns in the nets to lead Champlain Valley Union in defense of its Metro division title last season.

Two senior defensemen and two senior forwards lead the way as well.

Kaleb Godbout (2-9-11) and fellow blueliner Oscar Kelly (2-7-9) return on the back line.

Cam Rivard brings back his 10 goals and 11 assists and fellow senior Elliott Mitchell returns to provide a spark; he had six goals and three assists one year ago. Key Sophomore defenseman Nate Shanks, up from jv, and sophomore forward Joe Parento, a transfer from Northfield, are newcomers to watch. Freshmen forwards Jack Locker and Tyler Brooks should make some noise, too.

“The keys to success are the stable play of our veteran goalie and defense corp while the young forward group learns to score,” said coach Mike Murray.

hnibnews.com

hnibnews.com • Follow

Ethan Bartlett Essex Brendan Lahue So. Burlington

essex (16-2-2) The Metro state runners-up finished 16-2-2 last winter and lost in the finals to CVU. Brendan Gleason, senior forward, is back. Joining him are Joey Robertson, senior forward, Zac Godin, senior forward, Ethan Bartlett, junior defenseman, Jake Gaboriault, senior defenseman, and junior goalie Eric Short.

The team’s key to success is how well it fares combining the veterans with the rookies. “We will be mixed this year,” Essex coach Bill O’Neill said.

the action all season long!

Rice MeMoRial (2-18-1) The Rice Memorial Green Knights are looking for some heavy improvement this season.

Coach Leonard Badeau did not cite any key returnees or newcomers. The proof will be in the pudding on the ice.

“Last year was a rebuilding year for Rice, and we will be looking to improve upon our play across all facets of the game,” Badeau said.

“We will look to utilize their speed and physicality to help force teams into mistakes. We look for a competitive season this year as we apply our development and experience from last season.”

• hnibnews.com

hnibnews.com

Page 24

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DecemBer 10, 2014

Vermont HS PreView

A Rebuilding Season For Lakers

Metro Division

ColCheSter (14-8-0) The Colchester Lakers will be relying on the exploits of veterans Jared Rylant 13-15-28), a senior forward. He is joined on the ice this year by Garrett St. Pierre, a junior defenseman who had a pair of assists one year ago. Goalie Erik Swan (2.49 gaa, 2 shutouts) is back after an 11-8 season.

“We will need to play good team defense and find a way to manufacture goals,” Colchester coach Greg Murray said. “We will have more experience on the back end than the front end. We will need players like Jared Rylant, Jake Stebbins and Mark Gauthier to find the back of the net as often as possible. We are in the middle of a re-building season, and we will see a lot of new faces getting substantial ice time this season. Our goal is to be as competitive as possible and become tougher to play against as we get more game experience.”

Keep An Eye On Bobwhites

Crimson Tide Hopes To Bounce Back SpAulding (3-13-4) The Spaulding Crimson Tide hit the ice this season looking to bounce back from a sub-par campaign.

Captains Matt Blouin, Logan Safford and Ben Evans, all defensemen, and goalie Justin Laperle, return to lead the way.

Those players are the key to the team’s success this season, Coach Clay Bell said.

BFA-St. AlBAnS (13-5-2) Coach Toby Ducolon’s team finished 13-5-2 one year ago and aims for more success in the tough Metro Division.

Tanner Cioffi, junior defenseman, and Connor Boyce, also a junior defenseman, will anchor the blue line this season.

Captain Peter Dukas, a senior forward, is the team’s lone four-year player. He joins Matt Needleman, a junior, with leading the charge on offense.

“Matt was one of leading goal-scorers, and Peter was probably middle of the pack,” Ducolon said. “Peter is our captain and sparkplug. I’m very happy with how we’ve started. It’s extremely early but we're really happy.

The last couple of winters we’ve felt we didn't have enough depth. But this year our size and strength has improved greatly through some hard work, and I think we added depth this year.”

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Learn more at stowerec.org or call Matt Frazee at 802-253-2264

y!

Hocke

Ski Capital of the East UÊÊ iÜÊÃÌ>Ìi v Ì i >ÀÌÊ-Ì ÜiÊ Ài >° Ê Ê Ê >° UÊ Ý«iÀ i Vi`ÊVi ÌÀ> ÊÀiÃiÀÛ>Ì ÃÊÃiÀÛ ViÊv ÀÊ}À Õ«Ê `} }° UÊ Ý«iÀ i Vi`ÊVi ÌÀ> ÊÀiÃiÀÛ>Ì ÃÊÃiÀÛ ViÊv ÀÊ}À Õ«Ê `} }° UÊ ÊÌ iÊÀià ÀÌ Ì Ü Ê> i Ì iÃÊ-Ì ÜiÊ ÃÊv> ÕÃÊv Àt UÊ ÊÌ iÊÀià ÀÌ Ì Ü Ê> i Ì iÃÊ-Ì ÜiÊ ÃÊv> ÕÃÊv Àt

Hockey NigHt iN BostoN News

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DecemBer 10, 2014

Page 25

VErMonT HS PrEViEW by dom nicastro • Hnib news

W

hen in doubt, go with last year. The Lake Division of Vermont boys hockey seems incredibly tight heading into the 2014-2015 season.

Middlebury, Stowe and U-32 are each getting the most love from the coaches in the division.

But we’re going with the defending champs as our leader in the Lake preseason poll. Stowe gets the top slot here after finishing last winter with an 18-4-1 mark. The team finished strong last year, winning its final seven.

They are not massively depleted by graduation, either.

“I think the Vermont Lake division will be another tough battle this year,” Stowe coach Chris Eaton said. “There were a lot of young teams last year that will only be better this year.”

We think Middlebury will be better this year, too. It’s not like they have a ton of ground to make up, though. They were 17-6 and showed flashes of brilliance last winter like with an eight-game win streak.

They have a lot of key returnees like Justin Stone, who had 11 goals and eight assists. Returning goalie Sawyer Ryan posted an .895 save percentage and is 12-6 as a starter in his career.

“Middlebury and Missisquoi have their own youth hockey programs -- the only ones in our division -- and are always going to be strong,” Mt. Mansfield coach Bruce Garrapy said. u-32 comes in next for us. Its own coach, David Pickel, is not

HNIB VERMONT POLL LAKE DIVISION 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

TEAM W Stowe 18 Middlebury 17 U-32/Mont. 7 Mt. Mansfield 16 Woodstock 15

L 4 6 13 6 5

T 1 0 0 0 2

• Lake Division Preview • Defending Champ Stowe The Early-Season Pick putting too much stock into any predictions because he feels it will be a free-for-all in the Lake division this winter.

“Stowe is as an early season favorite, with Harwood being my ‘surprise’ pick,” he said. “I think any team ranked 1-8 will have a legitimate shot at winning it all.

It will be a very close race, and I foresee a lot of upsets.”

We’ll take Mt. Mansfield in the No. 4 slot. They had a real strong showing last season with a 16-6-0 final mark.

“U-32 and Mt. Mansfield will be the front runners this year,” said Derek Bartlett, Middlebury’s coach.

“There should be a great deal of parity in the league this year. It will make the season as exciting and com-

petitive as last year.”

And finally, let’s go with woodstock union in the No. 5 slot. A 15-5-2 mark one year ago and returnees like senior center Conner McCarthy, forward Braden McCarthy, defenseman Haven Lantz, forward Levi Vigh and forward Will Gault give them plenty of reasons for hope.

“Stowe will be very hard to beat,” said Northfield coach Paul Clayton, whose team after six years lost its connection with Montpelier. Those players have now teamed with U-32. “However,” Clayton added, “with good numbers and the addition of the Montpelier players who left Northfield after six years to now play at U-32, they could create problems and be dangerous.”

U-32 Joins Forces With Montpelier

Dalton James U-32

Middlebury (15-5-0) The Lake runners-up Tigers want nothing more than to get back to the title tilt, where last year they lost to Stowe, 2-1.

The top sniper returning would have to be senior captain Justin Stone 11-8-19). Nathan Lalonde, fellow senior captain, had two goals and four assists last season.

Juniors Tyler Crowningshield added 14 points (4-10), and classmate Colton Leo put home 12 points (4-8). Returning goalie Sawyer Ryan posted an .895 save percentage and is 12-6 as a starter in his career.

Returning defensemen River Payne and Andrew Gleason are expected to lead the back line.

Freshman newcomer Kryatian Gombosi should help the blue liners, too.

Stowe (18-4-1) The defending champion Stowe Raiders return with loads of confidence.

That’s what champions do.

Key returning players include junior center Chad Haggerty, senior blue liner JJ Clark, junior defender Cole Whitaker, junior left winger Chris Cinque and right winger sophomore Jackson Felis.

“Last year we peaked at the right time,” Stowe coach Chris Eaton said.

“That is our goal again this year. We have a very talented team and will be focusing that talent on hockey fundamentals.” u-32//Montpelier (7-13-0) The U-32 Raiders return some players who can put the puck in the net, and have a new co-op agreement this season with Montpelier, whose kids one year ago paired with Northfield. A tough first half schedule awaits.

Juniors Colby Brochu and Dalton James, a forward and defenseman, each scored 12 points one year ago. Sophomore defenseman Harper Wimble added 11 points. Seniors Connor Rice, Johnny Laperle and Kyle Verchereau are senior forwards who can score. Juniors Nick Grace and Griffin O’Neill are expected to produce.

New to the program are Lucas Eldred, a forward, Connor Barrett, forward, and defenseman Matthew Hynes and Ryan Andreoletti.

Pickel is excited about the goalie duo of Connor Carbo and Rory Hynes. woodStock (15-5-2) Coach Charlie Hancock’s Wasps return this year after making some noise in the Lake last season.

Seniors center Conner McCarthy, forward Braden Mccarthy, defenseman Haven Lantz, forward Levi Vigh and forward Will Gault are back.

Goalie Conner Black looks good, as do forwards Dan Robinson and Kevan O’Connell.

Freshmen newcomers Cullen McCarthy and Steven Townley should contribute.

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DecemBer 10, 2014

Vermont HS PreView

• Lake Division • Missisquoi Has The Goods To Challenge Missisquoi Valley union (7-13-0) Coach Chris Hatin’s Thunderbirds suffered a losing season one year ago. They were 7-13.

The good news is No. 1 sniper Jake Hubbard is back after a 42-point season. Defenders Mason Bean (senior, 0-4) and Morgan Rainville (junior, 3-6) are back.

Ian Walsh Junior Skyler Blaney, Missisquoi who had five goals last season, returns along with sophomore Timmy Fournier, who notched 12 goals one year ago.

Sophomore Zach Dezotelle tossed in five goals.

Missisquoi possesses a pair of sophomore goalies in Ian Walsh and Cam Gagne. lyndon institute (1-18-1) The Lyndon Institute Vikings struggled last year but return a wealth of talent.

Coach Jim Davis brings back three defensemen - senior Tucker Hubbard, senior Noah Burke and sophomore Ethan Cole. Four forwards also return.

They include seniors Danika Norcross, Seth McClure and Derrick Gagnon along with junior Ben Rutledge. Junior goalie Zach Turcotte is back to man the net.

Junior forward Jaydon Caron is a newcomer who is a good skater with great hands. Freshman forward Jayden Weed sees the ice well-will be a threat against defenses. Fellow freshmen forwards Rosson Goodwin, Ty Langtange and Kurtis Utley should make some noise, too. st. Johnsbury acad. (12-8-0) The St. Johnsbury Academy Hilltoppers finished 12-8 one year ago and get back their goalie, Cody Smith.

Anton Gulko, a sniper all last season, is back along with fellow forwards Brandon Wells, Jared Rutledge and Justin Carpenter. Dalton Lavely returns on defense.

Timur Nigmatulin is a newcomer to watch.

“We’re looking for the team to come together and a younger group of defensemen to step up,” said new coach Dick Emery.

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Vermont HS PreView

Mt. Mansfield Coming Together MouNt MaNsfield (16-5-0) Coach Bruce Garrapy returns at the helm this year after Mt. Mansfield posted a solid 16-5-0 campaign one year ago. While the team was solid last winter, it did lose a lot to graduation and will be young. But the coach likes how his team is coming together early in preseason.

Key returnees include: David Rosales, sophomore forward; Thomas Pierce, sophomore defenseman; Keagan McKay, junior forward; Greg Elgin, sophomore forward; Jackson Wright, junior forward and Travis Benson, a forward and the team’s lone senior.

Kyle Wright, is a freshman forward, and Phoenix Lamonda, freshman goalie, is another to watch.

MiltoN (10-10-1) The Yellow Jackets return after a .500 season in 2013-14. Coach Trevor Wagar’s team does bring back three seniors with potential to light up the scoreboard in a variety of ways. Left winger Hunter Goodwin (1417-31), center Jared Amstein (10-8-18) and defenseman Nick Goodrich (3-15-18) hope to lead Milton to a winning season.

Sophomore goalie Eric Roy has the chance to step in and start in his first year with the team. Sophomore center Brendan Green could contend to be on the second line and earn some power play time. harwood uNioN (6-13-2) The Highlanders return this year hoping for some major progress.

Leading the way this winter will be returnees: senior Adam Lamson (wing), senior Tom Belknap (defense), junior Gus Lockett (defense), junior goalie Dean Touchette, sophomore defenseman Ryan Garrand and sophomore center Justin Cantwell.

Newcomers include senior goalie Niilo Tuikki of Finland and sophomore winger Eli Rivers Burr & BurtoN (4-16-0) The Bulldogs won four of 20 games last season. But they do return a lot.

Key returning forwards include: seniors Andy Ishu and Chris Kornaros, juniors Tommy Grabher, Maxx Ingison and Kevin Souls, and sophomores Tyler King and Justin Teagan.

Back on the blue line are senior Nolan Johnson and James Doherty and sophomores Nathan Severance and Nathaniel Eisenman. Sophomore goalie Kevin Souls is also back.

New coach Kevin Fleurie is looking forward to newcomers Jay McCoy, a freshman forward, Joey Citera, freshman goalie, Henry Kornaros, freshman defenseman, Damien Sagendorph, senior defenseman, Trey Lang, sophomore forward, James Moore, junior forward, Mason Winslow, junior defenseman, Kevin Maguire, sophomore defenseman, Cameron Hedberg, freshman forward, and Dale Graves, freshman forward. hartford (15-6-2) The Hartford Hurricanes finished with a solid 15-6-2 campaign in the Lake division last winter.

Senior captain Will Gardner returns along with junior forward Nate Lemieux (13-11-24). The team could potentially have up to nine rookies.

BrattleBoro (5-13-2) Coach Eric Libardoni’s Colonels return for Lake play this season after a 5-13-2 mark.

Sophomore Declan Lonergan had 13 goals and eight assists as a freshman last year. Jon Curtis (senior forward, 5-13), Evan Perkins (junior forward, 5-7), Braxton Lynn (junior forward, 4-4) and Cooper TurnerRenaud (senior defenseman, 2-5) are all back.

John Peloso, freshman forward, should quickly become an impact player in the Lake division as a consistent scorer. Cam Pelkey, freshman defenseman, is aggressive and strong for a young player and should get immediate playing time, Libardoni said.

The coach also likes the play of freshmen forwards Mason Powers, Jacob Bailey and Miles Hiler.

Northfield (15-7-0) Coach Paul Clayton’s Marauders went 15-7 last year. Senior forward Ben Cole (6-12-18) was a big reason why. He returns along with sophomore goalie Riley Corey, who had a 91% save percentage and 14 wins as a freshman.

Freshmen Corey Doney, Garrett Bean, Jackson Clayton, Robby Clark and Connor MacDougall could make some noise in Year 1.

“After losing six to graduation and eight Montpelier players to the U32/Montpelier Coop we will put a process in place to rebuild the program,” Clayton said.

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DecemBer 10, 2014

CONNeCTICuT HS PRevIeW

• Division 1 Preview •

Catholic School Trio Bunched Atop Pre-Season Poll By michael Fornabaio • HNiB News

B

etween them, they've won 18 of the past 24 Connecticut Division I state titles. Maybe it's no surprise that coaches around the state are just about unanimous that Notre dame-Fairfield, Fairfield Prep and Notre dame-west Haven will be at the top of the state's standings this year, despite big departures for all three programs.

The three big Catholic schools drew just about equal support, with the slightest edge to the school that has waited the longest: The Lancers' last title came in 2006.

Notre Dame-Fairfield Earns #1 Spot The two-time defending champion Jesuits were right behind, with the Green Knights on their heels.

New Canaan was just a cut behind the Big 3 and was expected to remain strong in its first year in two decades without coach Bo Hickey, who retired this summer.

Assistant Pat Gore takes over an experienced team that'll battle with conference rivals ridgefield and state runner-up darien. The Tigers have battle-tested players at every position, and the Blue Wave, though graduating some stars that

led them through a strong year last year, expect to have replacements at the ready.

Glastonbury has experience up and down the lineup, including in goal, and is looking to youngsters to add depth. west Haven also has its goalie back, three-year starter Mike Savino, among other solid returning players.

Hamden will be looking to fill holes, most notably seeing how its young goalies develop, but it'll be battle-tested with a tough schedule.

Xavier also has holes to fill but has

Fairfield Prep In Midst Of Reloading FairField PreP (16-4-3) The Jesuits won their 16th state title last year, beating Darien on Vin D'Amore's overtime goal.

Graduations and transfers then knocked out over half their roster and most of their scoring. Even so, Fairfield Prep always seems to find ways to reload.

Jack Taubl has waited his turn for coach Matt Sather's team and takes over in net. D'Amore is among those returning on defense, along with fellow senior Will Dempsey and juniors Jack McGowen and Geoff Hadden.

Seniors Brandon Powell, Jack Quinn (back from two injuryplagued years) and Ryan Deering (five goals) and juniors Justin Blanchette (10 points) and Will Schlichtig are back at forward.

A strong JV team from last year should pump some players with experience up to the varsity.

key returning players everywhere, most notably in goal.

CONNECTICUT D-I TOP 10 POLL TEAM

WL T

1. NotreDame(F) 18 5 2. Fairfield Prep 16 4 3. Notre Dame (WH)15 7 4. New Canaan 19 5 5. Ridgefield 17 6 6. Darien 22 4 7. Glastonbury 17 7 8. West Haven 11 9 9. Hamden 6 14 10. Xavier 7 11

1 3 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 2

Gore Takes Over Helm At New Canaan Vinny D’Amore Fairfield Prep

Justin Blanchette Fairfield Prep

Justin Dupuis Notre Dame (Fair)

Notre Dame-Fairfield Will Rely On Grit, Skill, Focus Notre dame-FairField (18-5-1) Though the Lancers graduated several standouts from a team that won the SCC/SWC Division I title and made the state semis -- Christian LaCroix (New England Wolves), Garrett Gintoli (South Shore Kings) and goalie Zak Bouve (Wilkes-Barre Miners) are all playing junior hockey, to name three -- they've added several newcomers who should fill some holes.

Coach Steve Hetherman uses words like "gritty," "skilled" and "focused" a lot to describe his players, like senior co-captains Justin Dupuis and Jonathan Suporn, leading a group of forwards that will include junior Tyler Henchcliffe and Mark Russo and new arrivals Owen Kane and Connor McCutcheon.

Junior co-captain Seamus O'Rourke brings skill to the defense. Seniors Ryan Grawicki and Brendan Barger both have big shots from the point, and newcomer Max Lagasse adds grit.

New CaNaaN (19-5-1) Legendary coach Bo Hickey retired after 20 years at the helm.

His assistant, Pat Gore, has taken over a Rams team that expects to remain strong, with 16 players returning.

Six defensemen return, led by four-year player J.P. McMahon and Max Begoon, a senior with a big shot. Seniors Max Robustelli and Ted O'Rourke, junior James Franzis and sophomore Drew Morris are also back.

The Rams will rely on speed up front, including senior Parker Lewis. Senior Patrick Hompe is a power forward, and senior Peter Katz is good in both ends.

Sophomores Liam Mooney and Peter Windas will compete in goal.

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COnneCTICuT HS PRevIeW

Ridgefield Has Deep Squad

Wade Conlan Notre Dame WH

Joe Biondi WH Notre Dame -

Green Knights Strong On Defense notRe dame-West Haven (15-7-1) The Green Knights lost a lot of offense from last year (Kyle and Ryan Lynch left for Canterbury, to name two key departures), but senior (and assistant captain) Wade Conlan returns in goal, one of three goalies coach Tim Belcher can rely on.

There's also a good group coming back on defense, including junior captain Colin O'Connor, the team's leading returning scorer. Seniors Joe Biondi and Nick Abate and junior Paddy Connors will also play key roles.

Sophomore Alec Andreucci had a role on special teams as a freshman and will be a key forward for this year's team, along with speedy junior winger Joe Ansaldo.

Ridgefield (17-6-0) Last year's young team had a fine year and has grown up into a deeper group, led by senior captain Liam Smith, a two-way centerman at the head of a big and productive group of seniors.

They include assistant captains Paul Garlick and Shane Luery (grown stronger on defense), big defenseman Matt Keegans and speedy forward Brendan Winne. Goalies Alec Schneider and Pat Sheehan-Delaney return off good seasons.

The underclasses will provide that depth, like junior forwards Jimmy Wilkinson and Peter Sarath (whose older brother Sam, an all-state forward, was one of the team's key losses). An assortment of other youngsters should step up, too.

West Haven Will Be In The Mix West Haven (11-9-1) All-state goalie Mike Savino, who has been a stalwart for a couple of years, headlines a good senior class for the Blue Devils. Coach Joe Morrell expects another hard-working club.

The smart Devin Hines and Don Froelick, with good hands and a big shot, lead the defense corps.

Wyatt Condon, who led the team in goals last year, is back, along with speedy Kevin Coyle and hard-working Jake Lynch.

HOCKEY

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Page 31

CoNNeCTiCuT HS PrevieW

Darien Looks To Rachet Up Goal Scoring darien (22-4-1) Last year's team was dominant defensively but struggled sometimes to score. Coach Chris Gerwig is hopeful they'll put a few more pucks in the net while still keeping their own end in good shape.

That begins with big senior goalie Will Massie, who's expected to take over from Michael Colon.

He'll have an experienced defense in front of him with seniors Nick Tuzinkiewicz (a captain), Aidan Loh and Brendan Cassidy and junior Sam Knowlton.

Captains Jack Pardue and Craig Miller lead a group of returning forwards.

Hamden Is Banking On A Better Year Hamden (6-14-1) The Green Dragons have a hole to fill in goal. Senior Logan Cathey will have to sit out because of a blood clot.

Sophomore Stephen Richitelli could start, while junior Colin Burke has to sit out part of the season because of transfer rules.

The usual tough schedule will test them and a defense that includes seniors Tim Gontarski, Aiden Smyth and Eric Perez for coach Bill Verneris.

Up front, captains Matt Barnett and Sam Carignan lead a group that will look to junior Christian Ugolik and senior Mike DeMatteis to continue to produce. Jeremy Routh and Jake Blackwell contributed as freshmen.

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Division i Preview

Logan Underwood Glastonbury

Kyle Thibodeaux Glastonbury

Tucker Alissi Northwest Catholic

Hunter Chapman Simsbury

Glastonbury Has Good Core To Work With Glastonbury (17-7-0) Coach Ken Barse will be looking for some youngsters to step up and make the team deeper, but the Tomahawks have a good core returning, headlined in goal by senior Kyle Thibodeau off an all-state season.

Speedy senior Tyler McLean returns at forward

along with classmates Shane Mack and Tommy Caporale.

Seniors Logan Underwood and Carter Henderson are joined at times on defense by Matt Holdaway, who'll also play forward.

Simsbury, Northwest Hope To Make Next Step simsbury (7-13-1) The Trojans graduated 10 players, but coach Tom Cross hopes health and some consistent scoring could make this a successful year.

That'll begin with senior Hunter Chapman, who scored 11 goals last year. Juniors Ben and Zack Levin can finish, and junior playmaker Jake Arnold returns healthy after an injury-plagued sophomore year.

Senior Nate McIntyre leads the defense.

nortHwest CatHoliC (10-10-2) The Indians' first year in Division I went well. A young group joins the team this year, so coach Don Melanson expects the team will get better as the year goes along.

They'll be led by seniors Josh Stumpf, a physical defenseman who can chip in at the other end, too, and strong forward Tyler Noll.

Sophomore forwards Tucker Alissi and Anthony Ceolin should both take on key roles. Junior Mike Camasso played well in net last year.

With Solid Group Returning, Xavier Has Expectations Xavier (7-11-2) A solid group of players return for Dan DeConti's second year as head coach. That begins in net, where Ben Guidobono returns for his third year as a starter.

Senior captain Adam Aresco is a workhorse for the Falcons at center.

Wingers Dave Piekut and Hunter Wilcox, both seniors, will be key contributors up front. Finding production from the third and fourth lines will be important as young players move up.

Stay-at-home senior John Ford leads the defense; he can move the puck, too, and junior Cam Pollock will help out on the back end with his speed and shot when he's not on the wing.

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Hunter Wilcox Xavier

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ConnECTiCuT HS PrEviEw

CONNECTICUT DIV. II TOP 10 POLL TEAM 1 North Haven 2 Cheshire 3 Branford 4 East Haven 5 Amity 6 Suffield/Gran.

7 No. Branford 8 Hand 9 New Milford 10. Conard

WLT 13 7 3 11 11 1 18 5 1 17 5 0 17 9 0 14 6 1 10 11 0 14 10 0 15 6 1 4 16 0

• Division I Preview •

Division ii Preview

Wide-Open Race Expected By michael fornabaio • hniB news

C

onnecticut's Division II has been the one where it really didn't matter what happened in the regular season, just as long as teams held their own against tough parts of the schedule and played well enough against their peers to get to the playoffs. Conference tournaments were nip-and-tuck.

For the second year in a row, a .500 team put together a run in the state tournament, won four in a row and took the title. And that team, Hand, hadn't even made its conference tournament.

Who'll be the one this year?

East CatholiC (18-6-1) The Eagles, finalists in Division II two years ago and an overtime loss to Fairfield away from their first CIAC title since 1984, move up to Division I for the first time since 2007. Coach Drew Clarkin's teams are always competitive.

GrEEnwiCh (9-12-1) Coach Bob Russel's Cardinals have had to battle both local junior programs and the tough conference schedule, but there are at least a couple of coaches who see them as a candidate to improve this year.

The team had just five seniors last season. south windsor (9-12-2) Eight seniors graduated, but many underclassmen contributed for a team that upset Ridgefield in overtime in the first round of the state tournament. Coach Neil Rodman makes his teams competitive against some tough opponents. st. JosEph (7-14-1) J.R. Bria, a state champion with Notre Dame-Fairfield in 1999 and a college and pro defenseman, takes over the Cadets after Marty Crouse stepped down after last season. Last year's preseason hopes over a deep group of forwards didn't really pan out in results. They'll try to keep developing their young players.

Anthony Avallone East Haven

Good Group At Branford Branford (18-5-1) Winners of a tough-as-nails SCC/SWC tournament and one of the top teams all year, the Hornets return senior goalie A.J. Brink and a solid group of experienced defensemen, seniors Aidan Deane, Pat Cunningham and Jack Murray.

They've all been to their conference tournament three years in a row and won two out of three, as have senior captain Tyler Criscuolo, the team's leading returning scorer, and rangy forward Cooper Bunton.

Tyler Hackett left for midget hockey, but the defensive stalwarts returning can allow time for the young forwards to mature for coach Adolph Brink.

Nick Latella East Haven

East Haven Moves To D-2 East havEn (17-5-0) The Yellowjackets move down from Division I -- a move talked about for several years -- after losing their top line from last year, but coach Lou Pane's team has speed up front in the likes of junior captain Anthony Avallone, and senior captain Tyler Moss brings some grit up front as well.

Devan Avena returns in goal as a senior, with senior captain Mike Montesano and junior Nick Latella solid on defense.

Amity Graduates 10 Players amity (17-9-0) Runners-up in both the SCC/SWC Division II tournament and the CIAC tournament, the Spartans graduated 10 players, including all-stater Adam Shea and goalie Brian Mosher. Coach Gary Lindgren's team may need some time to grow but should remain tough to beat.

Several contributing forwards return, like co-captains Kevin Ryan and Zach Shelnitz as seniors, classmate Liam Caracciolo and sophomores Jeremy Cable and Charlie Csejka.

Co-captain Dalton Luciani leads the defense, and Mac Deane is back after a good freshman year. Sophomore Tim Johnstone takes over in goal.

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Tyler Criscuolo Branford

Thunderbirds A Sleeper? north Branford (10-11-0) The Thunderbirds have a bit of a sleeper feel, and coach Ralph Shaw says he sees some potential if some players step up.

They should be fine in goal with sophomore Will McEwen and senior Will Burke.

Senior captain and leading scorer Alec Martone returns, as does junior Adam Burkle, a skilled player.

Junior Dominic Raccio has strength and skill as well. Junior Tanner Opie will lead the defense.

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ConneCtiCut HS Preview

Hand Hopes To Defend D-2 Crown Hand (14-10-0) A good year turned great in the playoffs as the Tigers got hot and won the CIAC Division II championship in Ken Mitchell's first season as coach. Some solid defense returns in senior captain Andrew Rossi and junior Jeff Rider. Freshman Paul Gagliardi should also step right in there.

Junior Luke Brown and sophomore Tristan Sorenson lead the offense (Ben Solin is at Phillips Exeter), while sophomore Robert Smith takes over in goal from graduated standout Chase Briggs.

Capriglione New Coach For Green Wave new Milford (15-6-1) Scott Capriglione takes over as coach from Danny Moore. Capriglione expects a team with speed and will look to young players to step in quickly to replace graduates in goal and up front. Senior Jameson Steinhardt, a leader, returns on defense.

The Green Wave will look to seniors Tommy Nisco and Logan Doud to play important minutes at forward, with Matt Delafield moving from defense to forward. Senior Mason Butts, junior Riley Zimmerman and sophomore Payton Meyer bring some grit, and freshman Nate Capriglione is expected to jump into a top-six role right away.

On defense, seniors Noelle and Natalie Capriglione, both bound for Utica College, and junior Avery Hook will join Steinhardt.

Alex Fortuna, coming from South Kent, will likely take over in goal.

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Conard (4-16-0) The Chieftains have some experience on defense, including seniors Jake Reynolds and P.J. Melly and junior Patrick Corcoran.

Coach Greg Raymer's team has some younger forwards to go with senior Mark Ehnot, like juniors Grayson Lacroix, Matt McCormick, Jordon Fongamie and Jack Alissi. Sophomores Zach Polo, Dylan Turner and Paul Wilson can also step into important roles.

Conard Defense Has Experience

Zach Polo Conard

Fresh Start For Cheshire CHesHire (11-11-1) Hopes were high last year with 11 seniors after a move down to Division II; a .500 finish felt disappointing.

The Rams will start fresh, led by senior captain Ben Klanica, a playmaking centerman.

Junior Kyle Frederick, wearing an 'A', provides grit on the left wing, and senior Matt Jordan should be a finisher on the right side. Junior Jake Verneris will tend the goal for coach Karl Sundquist.

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CONNeCTICuT HS PRevIeW

Milford Will Be In The Hunt milFord (13-9-1) The Indians were one of those teams last year that could beat anyone on any given night, winning a couple of games in the state tournament.

A lot of scoring graduated, headlined by standout Zach White, but some good pieces return for coach Sal Follo, including a few good senior defensemen, captain Jarrod Butts, Jonathan DePascale with the big shot (12 assists last year) and David McLenithan.

Several forwards will take on bigger roles. Sophomore Andrew Gobany returns off a nine-goal, seven-assist season, and players like juniors Brandon Argyros, Tommy Sampson and Jacob Comeau and seniors Brady Dennigan, Charles Knights and Colin DiPisa each bring assets to the group.

Senior goalie Sean Rowland transferred from Notre DameFairfield.

Staying Healthy Key For Generals FarminGton/avon/ Windsor (4-16-0) Three Generals players went down for the year early last season. With a limited number of skaters, that's a killer.

Seniors Paul Tasillo and Kyle Sopelak are back from injury, though, for coaches Scott Percival and Mike Barone. They're two of a hard-working class of seven seniors, including forward Michael Arciero and defenseman Alden Piper.

Forwards Mike Santos and Jake Connelly and defensemen Mike Wissuchek and Andrew Arena are among the team's top juniors.

Division II Preview

Eagles Have Experience Marco DiPaola Newington/Berlin

Luca DiPaola Newington/Berlin

Aaron Lassen Newington/Berlin

Newington/Berlin On The Rise neWinGton/berlin/mancHester (16-5-1) Coach Dave Harackiewicz expects more excellent goaltending from senior co-captain Cam Criniti (1.90 GAA) in the team's second year in Division II. He'll lead the team against a schedule that will include a Christmas tournament up at the University of New Hampshire.

Senior co-captains Dante Gugliotti, who scored 18 goals last year, and Marco DiPaola, a two-way centerman, lead the offense along with junior Luca DiPaola. Senior Mitch Pitkin had 16 points and played a physical game on defense, and senior Chris Salvio and junior Aaron Lassen make three solid defensemen. Depth may be the big issue at the start.

Co-op Adds RHAM To Program rockville/bolton/coventry/rHam (19-3-1) The co-op swapped in that last school for Lyman Memorial, which is now part of a co-op in Division III. You can still call them "BCR." Whatever you call them, they've been socked by graduation.

The team will look to junior Paul Bates to step up as a leader and to a lot of young players to jump in and play. Coach Christian Stevenson understands what he's got; he's hoping they have some fun.

Senior Daelon Carnelli and junior Connor McGrath split time last year in goal; several other goalies will try to get into the mix. Senior Scott Mocko from RHAM should be an interesting addition.

Watertown/Pomeraug Is Young WatertoWn/PomPerauG (5-14-1) Last year's young team needed to replace a standout goalie, and it found a replacement in Carl LaRosa. He's back for his senior year. It's still a young team, though, and coach Vic Vicenzi will be looking for discipline and hard work as those young players get into the mix.

Senior Ray Borsari is reliable on the back end for the co-op, and sophomore Dan D'Ambrouso played a lot on defense as a freshman. Seniors Jeff Strakosch and Michael Foschi (a sometime defenseman) and juniors Nick Catuccio and Brian Manzer will look to create offense.

Sophomores Riley Peterson, James Derochers and Peter Jorgensen will step in on the wing, and classmate Ryan Dunfee should play on defense.

trumbull (4-16-0) The Eagles have some good, experienced players to lead the team, including senior captain Sam Watson and senior Jake Crowe on defense and a whole forward line of seniors, Nick Cirino, Michael Cullen and Matthew Sarosky.

If they find some younger players to complement them and fill some holes -- sophomore forward Brady Jensen already filled one, as the team's leading scorer last year -- they could improve.

Senior Francis Fromageot and sophomore Will Guttman will compete for time in goal for coach Greg Maxey.

Fermi Co-op Solid On Blue LIne Fermi/enField/east Granby/staFFord (6-14-1) Coach Frank Genovese's team should have five solid defensemen, led by seniors Ryan Gothers (six goals) and Troy Marin.

The team will look to them to chip in offensively and to protect the front of junior Sam Roy's net; he stopped 90.7 percent of his shots last year.

Up front, juniors Thomas Vose and Andrew Crane return, and other young forwards will be picking up more responsibility. The team moved to the CCC South, which should make the schedule more competitive.

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ConneCtiCut HS Preview

• Division III Overview •

Division II Preview

Same Powers Strong Again

By Michael Fornabaio • hNiB News

W

hen two-time champion Newington/Berlin/Manchester and their runners-up, Rockville/Bolton/Coventry and Northwest Catholic, moved up out of Division III, they didn't leave a void.

Jake King Suffield

Colin MacDougald Suffield

Wildcats Have Potential To Make Some Noise suFField/GraNBy/wiNdsor loCks (14-6-1) There are a few coaches looking at the Wildcats as a team that can make noise in Division II. They'll be tested by a tough schedule.

Two-time all-state forward Jake King returns as captain off a 26-goal, 21-assist season; he had 36 points two years ago. Junior Colin MacDougald (23 points) and sophomore Jake Bourdeau (17 points) played well last year and bring lots of speed.

Senior Shane Kertanis returnsin goal off a season with a .910 save percentage. Senior Austin Adams, another fast player, leads the defense in all situations.

North haveN (13-7-3) Coach Mike Silengo replaces Tom Roche, who took over at Fairfield, in the Indians' second year back in Division II after a stint at the top level.

Though the team graduated several key seniors, led by centerman Vin Fasulo, just about every coach you ask expects North Haven to be in the thick of it with a few solid underclassmen returning. triNity CatholiC (15-7-1) Coach Ken Smith had to step down due to work commitments. Johnnie C h i a p p e r i n o takes over as coach of the Crusaders, who'll have many key players to replace, most notably goalie Kyle Odierno.

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They left some fun and competitive hockey behind last year, with new powers emerging from different parts of the state and a first-time champion at the end.

Several of those same teams look strong again.

E.O. Smith/Tolland Starts Year At #1 e.o. sMith/tollaNd (17-7-1) Last year's runners-up graduate a couple of allstate players, forward Ross Brancati and defenseman Justin Gagnon, but there's enough back for another good year.

Masuk Will Challenge Masuk (18-6-0) The Panthers were one of the top Division III teams all year and reached the CIAC semifinals.

Coach Andy Townsend's team has a lot back at the top, like senior goalie Conner Muller (2.85 GAA), like its top three scorers, senior Shane Dushay (29 goals, 49 points at center), senior Charlie Christo (21 goals, 34 points) and junior Brian Denham (19 goals, 31 points).

There's also experience on defense, led by seniors Connor Bunovsky and George Andros. They'll look to some youngsters to add depth up front.

Senior Matt Schoen returns in goal after a season with a 1.75 goalsagainst average and a .930 save percentage.

Senior Sean Benjamin is a stayat-home defenseman for coach John Hodgson's Bucks. Senior Pete Mayer returns off a 31-goal season, and sophomore Nick Mayer had 25 points as a freshman. Senior Josh Barnes joins the team and should contribute.

New Fairfield/Immaculate Deep On The Blue Line New FairField/iMMaCulate (15-6-3) The team graduated some key players from a very good, competitive team, most notably goalie Ryan Dobos. But four-year varsity goalie Marchello Carlucci can step into that spot; he had a 1.19 goalsagainst average last year.

Coach Larry Vieira feels he has six solid defensemen, led by juniors P.J. Masi (13 points last year) and Kai Kindred. They'll look to young players to fill big spots behind the experienced forwards, like seniors Parker Evans (22 points), Matt Hooker and Andrew Rosenblum and junior Paul Benzing.

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Connor Bunovsky Masuk

CONNECTICUT DIV. III TOP 10 POLL TEAM

W L T

1 EO Smith/Tolland 17 2 NewFairfield/Imm.15 3 Masuk 18 4 Sheehan 15 5 Hall/Southington 12 6 Housatonic/NW 13 7 Newtown 18 8 Tri-Town 9 9 Westhill 7 10. Wethersfield 3

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ConneCtiCut HS PRevieW

Defending Champs Will Be Young neWtoWn (18-5-3) This could be a rebuilding year after graduating 10 players from a team that lost in overtime in the conference final, then won its first CIAC championship in an emotional run through the tournament. Not every coach buys that notion, but it will be a young Nighthawks team for coach Paul Esposito. They'll look to develop those youngsters.

Junior Nick Chaloux takes over in goal; he's a leader in the room. Sophomore Domenic Cartelli returns off a seven-goal season, and sophomore Scott McLean, whose one goal won the championship in March, will look to take another step forward. Junior Matt Pelisson brings size and smarts on defense, and sophomore Sean Ferris can play a physical game while moving the puck from the back end.

Brookfield/Bethel/ dAnBury (3-17-0) The IceCats move back down after a couple of years in Division II, and coach Rusty Granacker is hopeful they'll be competitive in Division III. With junior goalies Jacob Keller and James Van Tronk back, and with some experience on defense like seniors Trevor Powers and Eric Stoeckle and sophomores Luke Newman and Jack Wallin, their own zone will be a strength.

They'll look to develop their offense as the year goes on, though there's experience at forward as well. Seniors Will Lawrence, Nick Rhodes (back from a knee injury), Austin Natale and John Buckle, junior Jack Sommerfield and sophomore Doug Alfidi should all play important minutes.

stAmford (3-17-0) The Black Knights are young and don't have a lot of depth, but coach Doug Robinson is hopeful that a .500 record is attainable.

They've got two goalies back, sophomore Colin Rella and junior Conor McDonough.

Captain Zach Rood will play forward and defense for Stamford, as will senior classmate Ryan Sexton. Senior Tommy Molgano and junior Chris Clemenson should be key forwards.

Ryan Black Woodstock

Nathan DeLuca Woodstock

Jon-Luc Cournoyer Woodstock

Zack Burnham Woodstock

â&#x20AC;˘ Division III Overview â&#x20AC;˘

Woodstock Academy Ready For Year 2 Woodstock AcAdemy (6-10-0) The Centaurs moved up to varsity status with a respectable first season. Coach Mike Starr's team will face a tough schedule in Year 2 as it tries to continue to grow.

A gritty group of juniors, Jon-Luc Cournoyer, Connor Bavosie and Doug Gerrity, will protect the defensive zone.

A young group of speedy forwards includes Nathan Deluca, Will Liscomb and Ryan Black, and juniors Jordan Lamothe and Zack Burnham bring smarts in both ends. stAples/Weston/shelton (9-13-1) Second-year coach Todd Sharinn thought the Wreckers exceeded expectations last year.

With no seniors back this year and just four juniors -- forwards Jesse Greenspun, Ryan Johnson and R.J. Gupta and defenseman Ian Offenberg -- they'll be looking to continue to grow the program.

An assortment of talented newcomers are on the way, including sophomore defenseman/forward Evan Mancini, defensemen Sam Zaritsky and Billy Hutchison, forward Sam New and goalies Zach Bloom and Angus Fiori. shepAug/litchfield/ nonneWAug (5-16-0) Coach Michael Gorra's Spartans expect to be competitive this year with only a couple of losses to graduation. They've got all-state right winger Andrew Loya back as a senior; he scored 24 goals and added 11 assists. Senior Nick Ganio is also returning.

Senior Christian Stuart, who had 31 points last year, is moving to defense in front of sophomore goalie Will Slohm.

nfA/st. BernArd/BAcon AcAdemy/stonington/lymAn memoriAl (4-17-0) Living proof that the early games matter as much as the late ones: The team made the playoffs last year on a head-to-head tiebreaker because of a Dec. 26 win over Norwalk. This year's team adds the latter two teams to the coop (Lyman Memorial had been long-time partners with Bolton and Coventry in different incarnations), which helped give second-year coach Terry McAuliffe's team 29 players at the preseason meeting.

They'll look to continue to grow the program, led by senior Andrew Gagnon at center with junior Logan Morin joining him at forward, and senior Danny Terraciano leading the defense.

Wethersfield (5-16-0)/rocky hill/middletoWn (3-17-0) Wethersfield adds part of an old co-op, Rocky Hill/Middletown (their partner, RHAM, joined Rockville/Bolton/Coventry in Division II). They'll have to come together as a cohesive unit.

Coach Dennis Tulimieri's team brings some experience, back, though, including in goal with senior Domingo Rodriguez and sophomore Stephen Vaughan. They'll look for continued improvement there.

Senior co-captains Cameron Cietek and Colin Horn lead the defense with senior James Garofalo and junior Mitch Marena. Co-captain Anthony Portonova will work at the front of the opposition net, and co-captain Nick Hock is a playmaking forward to go with tenacious senior Ryan Wolfer as the team looks to replace a lot of graduated scoring.

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ConneCtiCut HS Preview

Connecticut Girls HS Hockey: Talent, Level Of Play, Continue To Improve

by Michael Fornabaio • Hnib news

A

fter leading Simsbury (22-2) to the state championship last year -- Maggie Grigely scored two goals in a 3-1 win over Guilford in the state final -- coach Kris Arnold retired. The Trojans remain the team to beat, with a lot of their key players returning.

Darien could also challenge. east Catholic (17-5) is coming off its best season, SCC runner-up in overtime to Simsbury.

The Eagles are led up front by seniors Leyna Dimarco and Carly Barrett, and a full line of juniors -- Maddison Bishop, Maggie Hallisey and Marykate Thompson -- could break out.

Sophomore Maddie Gervais returns from injury. Juniors Bridget Kelly, Sarah Manner and Eliza Baker lead the defense in front of sophomore goalie Morgan Peters. new Canaan (14-7-1) only lost one senior, but goalie Nathalie Deney leaves a void, allconference two years in a row. Senior co-captain Sarah Klearman will replace her in net. The Rams have the interesting situation of having 11 seniors and 10 freshmen.

They've got senior forwards Emma Rosenstein and MacKenzie Lewis, both co-captains, and junior Catherine Granito (50 goals) up front, and senior Emma Patch (another co-captain), junior Mia Carroll and sophomore Bella Marciano on defense. But freshmen like forwards Gianna Bruno and Brooke Deane and defenseman Liz McCarthy should chip in for coach Rich Bulan.

Darien (21-3) could also challenge. Coach Jamie Tropsa's team has a lot coming back, including senior captains Julia Arrix and Sammy Nielsen (forwards) and Amanda Sload (defense). Senior Izzy Scribano is in goal, and a junior class including Georgia Cassidy, Marissa Baker and Chandler Kirby will play key roles. ridgefield could be a team set to take a step forward with leadership from a senior class that includes right winger Maeve Reilly. Junior defenseman Kate Lombardozzi returns for coach Lauren L. Gibbs, and freshman Tracy Stafford can also be an important defenseman.

Trumbull/St. Joseph (13-8) will be led by senior captain Kaly Gonski, a goal-scorer.

Junior Gina Moriello will be in goal for coach Paula Dady with sophomore Lexi Brown, an allaround player, playing a key role as well.

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Hamden (11-9-0) graduated lots of scoring, but coach Mike Callan expects a hard-working team. Newcomers should make for a deep team, but they'll also have to step up and produce.

They've got two senior co-captains back up front in Samantha Cozzolino (19 goals and 17 assists last year) and Caraline Kennedy (9-1423). Defenseman Samantha Talmadge produced 15 goals as a sophomore.

Fairfield (6-12) graduated a lot and has lots of new players coming in for new coach Paul Jalbert. Senior Phoebe Cascella has been solid in goal for the co-op. Senior Anniekaye Ficarra has been much improved on defense, and sophomore defenseman Courtney Scheetz brings stickhandling and a good shot to the blue line. lauralton Hall will be led by some youngsters: sophomore Michaela O'Donnell is in goal

Morgan Peters East Catholic

Gianna Bruno New Canaan

for coach Michelle Marella, and sophomore Kerri Ullman and freshman Marissa Fiori will be among the top forwards.

Freshman Nikki DeCola will play forward and defense.

CT. D-3 Boys: Tri-Town Looks For Next Step Tri-Town (9-12-1) Jesse Peters took over as coach just before last season. The team worked its way to the Division III semifinals and is hoping to take the next step.

Senior Philip Nicolescu takes over in goal for graduated standout Alex Bleisner. Senior cap-

tain Ryan Gaidos, junior Jason Skorulski and sophomore Ryan Sherba should all chip in with offense.

Physical junior Tom Burgess and hard-working sophomore Sam Greenberg will lead the defense.

• New HampsHire DivisioN iii •

Sanborn Makes Its Varsity Debut Sanborn regional The Indians make their varsity debut this winter under the guidance of coach Kevin Merrick.

Expect them to focus on team defense and limiting turnovers while seeking to develop balanced scoring.Sophomore Corey McLaughlin is likely to get the call in goal while senior Zach Matthews anchors the defense.

Sophomore Liam Dolan leads the forwards and senior Ian Leavitt can shift from forward to defense as needed. Freshman forward Nick Frost and freshmen defensemen Luc LeBlanc and Hunter Holmberg could contribute immediately.

ConVal (4-13-1) The Cougars graduated nine and lost three others to prep school and academics. The remaining core of experienced players will have to remain healthy in order to compete with the division’s top tier.

Senior Erik Leger led the team in scoring a year ago despite playing only 10 games. Freshman forward Matt Kolk adds a speed element. Senior defenseman Patrick Joseph is back for his fourth varsity campaign while freshman Palmer Timmons figures to play right away.

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page 39

RHode ISland HS PRevIeW

By Gary Demopoulos • HNIB News

T

he Rhode Island Interscholastic League has done some realignment for boys hockey for the upcoming 2014-2015 season, one that promises to lead to some exciting races for state championships in March.

The Cimini Division, or State Championship Division, will consist of five teams this winter: defending state champ Mt. St. Charles, perennial powers Bishop Hendricken and LaSalle Academy, and public school entrants Smithfield HS and the Cranston Co-op, the 2014 Division I Eccleston champions.

Seven teams will face-off for an eventual Division I title (Eccleston). Included in this group is 2014 Division II champion Cumberland, bumped up this year

Realignment Sparks New Season Cimini Now 5 Clubs: Eccleston D-1 Loop Has 7 Teams along with The Prout School, North Kingstown and Lincoln.

Other teams are Burrillville, Barrington and Coventry.

The new look Division 2 is the state's biggest loop, with a total of 10 teams: East Greenwich, 2014 Division III champ East Providence, Narragansett, North Smithfield, Pilgrim, Portsmouth, the new Rogers/Middletown coop, South Kingstown, PCD/St. Raphael/Wheeler and Toll Gate.

Division III will feature seven teams: Mt. Hope, Ponaganset, Scituate, Johnston/North Providence, Warwick Vets, West

Warwick/West Greenwich/Exeter and Woonsocket.

The HNIB News pre-season poll features Mt. St. Charles as the state's #1 team, just ahead of Bishop Hendricken. The Mounties, who have now won six of the last seven state titles, beat the Hawks, two games to one in last year's championship series.

Fellow Cimini Division members LaSalle and Smithfield take the poll’s #3 and #4 spots, just ahead of defending Division II state champion Cumberland, moved up to the D-I Eccleston Division this winter.

#1 MSC Has What It Takes For Title Quest Solid Goaltending Will Be Key For Mounties MOUNT ST. CHARLES (19-8-0) Winners of six state titles in the last seven years, and now at 32 overall for legendary coach Bill Belisle, the Mounties will need to replace three-year starter Brian Larence in goal. That job should go to Zachary Vanasse, coming up from the junior varsity. "We need him to step up for us to defend the title," said Mount co-coach David Belisle.

At forward, senior tri-captain Patrick Holmes (31 pts) is a returning All-State performer who will be an offensive catalyst along with senior tri-captain Justin

D'Abrasca (21 pts). Senior Kevin Valentine and sophomores Jake Glod (11 pts), Daniel Allen (12 pts) and Joe Sanchioni (9 pts) will have key roles. New sophomores Jared Rudek and James Belisle should step in and be contributors right away.

On the blue line, senior tri-captain Keith Phaneuf (24 pts), also a returning All-Stater, will be the anchor.

Sophomore Tim Casilli (15 pts) will have a huge role, as will sophomore Jack Boisvert. Look for sophomore Jack O'Donnell to get some key minutes.

Bishop Hendricken Will Be Right In It BISHOP HENDRICKEN (20-4-2) The Hawks pretty much set the standard in the Cimini Division all season long, only to come up a bit short come playoff time, losing an epic three-game finals series to Mount. They will be right in it again this year.

A couple of talented forwards have moved on, but Hendricken still expects to rely on the likes of junior Reilly Miller (18 pts), junior Brandon Mitchell (10 pts), junior Brandon Waterman and sophomore Sam

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Milnes. Sophomore Patrick Creamer (32 pts) had a huge freshman campaign and is expected to be one of the team's key players. Senior Alex Leite is one of the Hawks captains.

Defensemen expected back include senior captain Steven Dumond (8 pts), sophomore Bryce Dolan (10 pts) and senior captain Tim Poulin.

In goal, veteran coach Jim Creamer is counting on senior Matthew Kenneally, who got the bulk of the minutes last winter.

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HNIB RHode IslaNd Top TeN poll TEAM

WL T

1. Mt. St. Charles 2. Hendricken 3. LaSalle 4. Smithfield 5. Cumberland 6. Cranston West 7. No. Kingstown 8. Burrillville 9. Lincoln 10. Prout School

19 20 13 13 27 9 17 7 20 13

8 4 7 7 1 9 6 14 4 7

0 2 1 1 0 2 1 3 0 1

Experience Key For LaSalle LASALLE ACAD. (13-7-1) Coach Michael Gaffney says his team will have lots of experience, which will only be a plus competing in the Cimini Division.

Some of that experience is in goal, where senior Tyler Walsh is back for his final year. He is considered one of the top netminders in the state and will backbone the Rams from his position between the pipes.

LaSalle also boasts four senior defensemen that will bring their leadership to the blue line in Joe Manown (13 pts), Nick Altieri (7 pts), Ben Aldrich and Ryan Kelly.

Senior Ryan Tracy will be a vital cog up front for the Rams.

Seniors Tyler Glick and Nick Battista also return. Sophomore Evan McGreen is expected back as well.

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Sentinels Up For Challenge SMITHFIELD (13-7-1) The Sentinels welcome the elevation to the Cimini - State Championship Division, which will result in a more difficult schedule.

"If we work hard, get good goaltending and have a scoring touch we can compete in our league," said coach Bob Jackson.

Senior Mike Macera (38 pts) will be one of the divisions top guns.

Senior Andrew Souza (13 pts) and sophomores Jim Varin and Brian Tobin are back as well. Newcomers looking to contribute at forward include junior Matt Simons, sophomore Luca Ragosta and freshman James Bellavone.

Smithfield returns four blue liners, which will help. Back are senior Mike Gaulin (10 pts), junior Dave Gaulin (8 pts), sophomore Rob Lombardi and Brian Greene. Freshman Logan Clavet hopes to crack the roster.

Senior Roger Laflamme and junior Evan Carlton will battle for the starting goaltender's job.

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Division I - Eccleston

Kyle McKenna Cumberland

Leo Lake Cumberland

Jake Salisbury Cumberland

Cumberland Ready To Show Its Talents In Division I CUMBERLAND (27-1-0) The prize for winning the Division II state title? A move up to Division I. The Clippers are more than ready for the task.

A nice nucleus of forwards return for coach Dr. Mark Andreozzi, including seniors Greg Wellington and Jack Wainwright, juniors Jake Salisbury and Trevor Whalen, and sophomores Jimmy Cabral and Bryan Colburn. Looking for increased roles up front are seniors Zack Kay, Connor Clarey and Brandon McMillen.

Senior Kyle McKenna will be a force on the Clippers' blue line, a group that also features senior Tom Malloy, junior Derek Bross and sophomore Andrew Rzemien. Juniors Salvatore Ciolino and Tyler Parker will press for time.

In goal, senior Leo Lake is coming off a banner campaign where he allowed just 26 goals all season.

Team Defense Key For Coventry COVENTRY (1-19-0) The Oakers will skate eight freshmen, most of which will be playing up front, so it will be imperative for the team to play great defense until the younger players come along, reports coach Ken Bird.

That means key roles for junior defenseman Kurt Marquis and senior defenseman Mitchell Jones, playing in front of junior goalie Ryan Clifford.

Bump Up Has Prout Excited PROUT SCHOOL (13-7-1) A bump to Division I is in store for the Crusaders, who appeared in two straight Division II state finals (2012, 2013).

Senior James Neri, junior Ben Alofison and sophomore Zack Gauvin are top returners up front for coach John Gaffney.

Sophomore Jimmy Burke will be a key blueliner in front of goalie AJ Gemma.

Follow The High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Season at hnibnews.com

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Rhode Island hs PRevIew

Rebuilding Year For Eagles BARRINGTON (6-10-2) It could be a rebuilding year for the Eagles, who lost their top two lines and could skate as many as 14 freshmen.

Senior Nick Graham, back from injury, will be an important forward for coach Derek Borek.

A pair of seniors - Jeff Scharver and Derek Carlson - will log a lot of minutes on the Barrington blue line. The Eagles also welcome back two netminders in senior

Aaron Shuman (1.92 gaa) and junior Colin Glegg.

Jeff Scharver Barrington

Robinson Takes Broncos’ Helm BURRILLVILLE (7-14-3) The Broncos will be under new management this winter as Bill Robinson has taken over behind the bench. He will have his club ready to go.

Leading the way offensively will be senior Chad Stone, coming off a 20-goal season. Other key forwards back are seniors Tom Libby and Joe White.

Senior Nick Koprusak (18 pts) headlines the Burrillville defense and also has some offensive capa-

bilities. Two other seniors back on the back end are Ben Robinson and Pat McConnell.

Division I - Eccleston Overview

Solid Offensive Production Key For Skippers’ Charge NORTH KINGSTOWN (17-6-1) The Skippers also make the move to Division I and look forward to the challenge.

A host of production returns for coach Bob Nabb with the likes of senior Ryan Nabb (32 pts), junior Ben Wilson (24 pts) and sophomores Sean Stamp (40 pts) and Stephen Murphy (17 pts). Looking for increased roles are senior co-captains Carter Lyle and Ian Morgan.

Defensively, senior Matt Murphy and juniors Anthony Antonucci and Chris George form a solid blue line nucleus. No less than six sophomores and freshman are looking to make the jump for playing time on defense.

Junior Jared Parkins has been the Skippers’ starter in goal since his freshman season.

CUSHING HOCKEY

5

Cushing Olympians, including Meghan Duggan ‘06, 2-time Olympic silver medalist and captain of the 2014 U.S. Women’s Olympic Hockey team

195

Nick Koprusak Burrillville

• RI Division III Teams •

Approximate number of Cushing boys’ and girls’ hockey players who have gone on to play Division I hockey in college

48 24 25

Cushing athletes who have been drafted or gone pro

NEPSAC championships in the past 17 years, in 6 sports

Average number of Cushing athletes each year who go on to play in college

WOONSOCKET (2-17-1) The youngest team in the division, the Novans will look to be competitive each and every night out, with a goal of making the playoffs.

A backbone for coach David Rivard will be junior goalie Nicholas Beals, who merited all-state honors last winter, facing 40+ shots on many nights. Junior Austin Forget will be the key man on defense, while freshman forward Jared Rivard looks promising on the offensive side.

WARWICK VETS (2-16-0) If the Hurricanes can cut down on their goals against, there could be some considerable improvement this winter.

Coach Mike Boyajian, Jr. will look to returners D.J. Kowalik and Jake Mitchell to carry the offense, which adds newcomers Noah Kane and Colin Csoszor.

The Warwick blue line returns three in Tyler DePetrillo, Greg Fontaine and Timmy Chaffee. The goaltending duties will be handled by Colby Howard and recent Hendricken transfer Nick McGhie

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With rigorous programs in academics, athletics, and the arts, Cushing is an independent, coeducational boarding school for students in grades 9-12 and post graduates, and is located one hour west of Boston.

www.cushing.org

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Mariners Should Compete Right Away NARRAGANSETT (19-3-0) The Mariners make the jump up to Division II and look to compete right away. They don't have a lot of depth, so will need to stay injury free.

Seniors Dylan Jardon (58 pts) and Kurt Richardson (32 pts) and junior Connor McKnight (53 pts) are a formidable offensive trio for coach Chris Lussier. Freshman Austin Pratt hopes to contribute offensively.

On defense, look for senior Duke Sterling (29 pts) to be a force.

Senior Joe Iannelli (2.03 gaa) gives the Mariners a solid choice in goal.

Freshman goalie Brendan Morica will press for time

Division II Overview

te Josh Labon hfield it m S th or N

Riley Bo ucher North S mithfield

Kyle Evangelista North Smithfield

North Smithfield Definitely In The Hunt NORTH SMITHFIELD (13-9-0) Expect the Northmen to be in the race until the end, especially if they can get great leadership from the senior class.

Prime marksmen up front for coach Paul Nadeau should be junior Riley Boucher and junior Kyle

Evangelista.

Junior Josh Labonte leads the defense. Freshman Adam Blakemore looks to have a role on the blue line.

Senior Mark Pasqueriello is an experienced goaltender.

Team Defense Presents The Key For PSW

dson Kurt Richar tt Narraganse

TOLL GATE (2-15-1) The Titans are looking to improve, and will need to improve on offense, and have some of their younger guys step up.

Senior Jack Sullivan (13 pts), senior Sean Vittum (12 pts) and Kyle Palumbo will be key forwards for coach Mike Champagne.

The defensive leaders look to be junior Jake Stachurski and senior Anthone Ottone.

Newcomers looking to make an impact are Max Fields and Will Fox.

ST. RAYS/PCD/WHEELER (17-10-1) This co-op came on strong last season and made it to the D-II final series. Team defense will be key if PSW can get to that final round again, and maybe even win it.

There is a nice group of offensive producers back in seniors Nate Duffy (29 pts) and Justin Katz (26 pts), juniors Zach Librizzi (22 pts) and Griffen Leonard (16 pts) and sophomore Patrick Flemming (16 pts). New

sophomore Brandon Sullivan and freshman Dennis Gastel look to jump right in.

Senior Josh Long will anchor the blue line for coach Gary Leonard. Juniors Dylan Boisclair and Jacob Bourski return as well. Spencer Sullivan and DJ Demers will have key roles.

In goal, sophomore Justin Simmons and a pair of freshmen will vie for the starting job.

Rogers, Middletown Combine Forces ROGERS/MIDDLETOWN/ROCKY HILL This newly formed co-op should be able to compete right away. "The key to success for us is to take the two different teams from last year and form a single cohesive team," said coach Chris Winnes.

Leaders up front for RMR project to be Garrett Gunning, Liam O'Regan, Griffin Streicther and Jonathan Habel.

The defense, which looks to be strong, will feature Adam Proulx, Brendan Read and Fraser MacKechnie.

PORTSMOUTH (5-15-0) With as many as 11 freshmen in the lineup, the Patriots are looking for some leaders to emerge and help guide the youth movement as the season goes on.

Senior Matt Alexander and juniors Ben O'Hearn, Evan Alvanas (16 pts) and Matt Faria will need to pro-

vide spark in the offensive zone for coach Mike Monahan.

Defensive cornerstones will be seniors Kevin Manning and Frankie Harnedy. The starting goaltender's job is up for grabs.

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Rhode Island hs PRevIew

Kalvin Hillock South Kingstown

PILGRIM (1-17-0) The Patriots have turned the reins over to Steve Henn, who is ready to take on the task of getting this program on the right track immediately.

"Even though we are building a program, we are NOT rebuilding," he said "We have what it takes to be successful in Division 2 this season, but we don't have the depth the other teams have."

Key forwards for Pilgrim look to be junior Dean Russo and sophomores Patrick Reilly and Ron Minear.

Junior Nolan McCusker and senior Brett Casale are important parts to the defensive unit. Freshman goalie MJ Rochaleau will fight for the starting position.

Zach Walker South Kingstown

Rebels’ Strength In Defensive Zone SOUTH KINGSTOWN (10-7-1) The Rebels will feature a strong team defense, with all of their defensemen and senior goalie Brendan Barnes back. "We are excited about this season," said coach Ed Curran.

Seniors Zach Walker and Ryan Bertelli, and juniors Liam McGill and Liam Foley (10 pts) will be the go-to guys on defense. New sophomore JT Gibbons hopes to crack the rotation.

Scoring production will come from juniors Kalvin Hillock (14 pts) and Colan Gulla (11 pts). New sophomores Sean Egan and John Mahoney hope to have an impact.

EAST PROVIDENCE (17-6-0) The Division III state champions move back to Division II, where they last resided six years ago. The Townies will rely heavily on its group of nine seniors to be immediately competitive at the new level.

Playoff hero Jared Estrella (32 pts), a senior, is back to lead the offense.

Coach Kevin Croke also can rely on senior Ryan Costa (22 pts) senior Andrew Gordon (12 pts) and junior Brynn Costa (18 pts). Newcomers Jacob Crombie, James Carlson, Cody DeCastro, Derek Silva and Cameron Maxell look to have roles.

On the blue line, senior Kyle Marquis, was a second team All-Division performer last winter, while senior Tyler Maxwell made the third team.

Senior Mike Allienello is back as well. Sophomore Rachel LaValley will fight for minutes. In goal, EP welcomes back senior Marc LaValley, last year's playoff MVP. New junior Dylan Bochichio is in the mix.

EAST GREENWICH (7-11-2) With all but two players back, the Avengers fully believe they will be contenders this winter. Hard work and team commitment will go a long way to acheiving that goal.

Up front, junior Max Hagenburg (31 pts) will be a key performer, as will senior captain Austin Vutech and junior Ross Trinque (17 goals) and Paul Dunwoody (17 goals). Newcomer John Ferguson, a transfer from Hendricken, should contribute right away.

Defensively, coach Sean Fahey will lean on senior Alex Ginest, as three-year starter, and junior Chris Pearson, who will log a ton of minutes.

The same goes for up-and-coming sophomore Skylar Fontaine.

East Greenwich also returns a pair of goaltenders in senior Sean McKenzie and sophomore Jake Horoho.

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RI Division III Clubs

Co-Op Returns Several All Stars WEST WARWICK/EXETER/W. GREENWICH (16-2-0) A pretty solid group of returners are back from what was a very good team last winter for coach Pete Ethier, so expect the Knights-Wizards to be in the hunt from day one.

Senior Anthony Ventura (37 pt), a first team All-Division player, is back to power the offense, along with senior forward Tom Pecchia (33 pts) and junior Max Ventura (35 pts), both second team All Division selections.

Freshmen Nick Pecchia and Brendon Coski hope to have key roles.

Defensively, junior Brett Coski (37 pts) was also first team AllDivision, and senior Pat Fields returns with his leadership and experience.

The team is also in good shape between the pipes with senior Ivan Forcier, also first team All-Division, back for another season.

SCITUATE (9-9-0) The Spartans have set their sights on a serious challenge for Division III supremacy. They will need to play smart hockey.

Sophomore forward Matt Besser and senior rearguard Lucas Mancinelli will be vital to any success for coach William Bryant. Freshmen hoping to have regular roles include Aidan Pendergast, Steve Durvin and Tyler Carney.

MT. HOPE (2-19-0) The Huskies move down from Division II and it will allow the program some time to regroup, and develop some of the younger players in the program.

Up front, seniors Tyler Daniels, Austin Daniels, Nick Kachapis, junior Jacob Calouro and sophomore Austin Hogan are all expected to contribute offensively. Two freshmen to watch are Ryan Cordeiro, who could play some defense as well, and Kyrik Codeiro.

Junior Nate Cordeiro will spearhead the defense for coach Steve Ouellette. Sophomore Nick Fowler projects to have a bigger role this winter. Senior Matt Thoms should get the job between the pipes.

- Ponaganset and Johnston/North Providence are also in Division III. No information was available as of press time.

* More Division iii Capsules

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New JeRSeY HS PRevIew

By Jon Yardley • HNIB News

F

or the first time since 2007, the New Jersey high school hockey season begins with a new defending private-school champion after CBA and Morristown-Beard tied for the 2014 title, breaking Delbarton’s unprecedented run of six consecutive titles.

The top three teams in the state, however, are nothing new: CBA, Don Bosco Prep, and Delbarton have combined to win the last eight Gordon Cup championships. They have monopolized the last three Gordon title games, with each winning once.

CBA (20-4-4) starts the year at No. 1 despite losing last year’s Shore Conference MVP, Bobby Hampton, who transferred for academic reasons. The Colts still have the impressive senior forward trio of Greg Malafronte, Austen Tieri, and Conor Tierney and return plenty of experience on the defensive side as well.

Ten-time state champion Delbarton (20-5-3) saw a fiveyear, 78-game regular-season unbeaten streak against in-state opponents snapped last January, then saw its 26-game state-tournament winning streak come to an end with a semifinal loss to eventual co-champion MorristownBeard. The Green Wave return strong sophomore Troy Kobryn in

HNIB NEW JERSEY TOP TEN POLL TEAM

W L T

1. CBA 20 4 2. Delbarton 20 5 3. Don Bosco 16 5 4. Ramsey 28 3 5. Pope John 17 6 6. Mo-Beard 20 5 7. Bp. Eustace 2 11 8. St. Peter’s 11 9 9. Middletown N. 14 10 10. Randolph 14 7

4 3 3 0 2 3 2 3 0 3

• Garden State Top 10 Poll •

Christian Brothers Starts Year At # #1 Impressive Public Ramsey Is At # #4

MORRIS KNOLLS is the defending New Jersey Public A champions.

goal and older brother Tyler up front, while Sean Petrie and Andrew Petrillo lead the defense.

At No. 3, Don Bosco Prep (16-5-3) won its first Gordon Cup championship but was upset in the quarterfinals of the private state tournament.

The Ironmen lost plenty of talent, but senior forward Hunter Garlasco returns up front, and sophomore goalie Alexei Masanko, who thrived as a freshman, should settle a relatively inexperienced defense.

In New Jersey, public schools hardly ever rank among the state’s top five.

But Ramsey (28-3) boasts perhaps the state’s top player in forward Alex Whelan, who signed a national letter-of-intent in November to attend Quinnipiac in the fall of 2016. Whelan has plenty of support, too, with junior defenseman Brandon O’Callahan and sophomore goalie Tyler Harmon leading the defense.

No. 5 Pope John (17-6-2) won the National Division of the Gordon Conference last year, earning the right to compete in the American Division this year, and they have the team to do it. Senior forward Donny Flynn and senior defensemen Charlie Spetz both return, and if one of the Lions’ three goaltenders can make the starting position his own, Pope John could be a threat to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2007.

After a postseason run that included a fortuitous (and erroneous) officiating call in a Round-of-16 shootout, No. 6 Morristown-Beard (20-5-3) won a share of its first state championship last year after a 4-4 tie with CBA in the private state final. Senior defenseman James Callahan and junior goalie Dan Porth will make the Crimson tough to score on this year, while sophomore Alex Borowiec leads a balanced offense, making MorristownBeard the favorite to win a fifth Mennen Cup title in the last seven years.

No. 7 Bishop Eustace (2-11-2) has not posted more than six wins since a 22-6 campaign in 2009, but the Crusaders have enough firepower to be favored in the National Division this year. Senior forward Chayse Primeau and his brother, sophomore goalie Cayden, headline an experienced group with more depth than Bishop Eustace has had in years.

Another National Division team hoping for a revival is No. 8 St. Peter’s Prep (11-9-3). The Marauders bring back talented junior Augie Burkhardt and senior Sean Crowley at forward, with junior Chris Picnic on the blue line and senior Jonathan Labella in goal.

No. 9 brings a surprise in Shore public school Middletown North (14-10). The Lions will have what one opposing coach called “the top line in the state” when CBA transfer Bobby Hampton (30-43-73) becomes eligible in January and joins Tom Terranova (24-21-45) and Khristian Acosta (21-19-40). If Middletown North can get solid goaltending, that kind of firepower will make them one of the favorites in the highly competitive Public B bracket.

No. 10 Randolph (14-7-3) has seven state championships in the last 12 years and starts the year as the favorite in Public A. Always deep and capable of wearing down public-school opponents, the Rams this year return plenty of scoring firepower, led by Noah Leinwand and Mike Slavin, and a starter in goal in Garrett Stenberg. The key will be how fast a young defense corps can get up to the speed of play in the highly competitive Mennen Division.

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New Jersey Hs Preview

Gordon ConferenCe - ameriCan division

Deep CBA Prime Contender For Private Title

By Jon Yardley • HNIB News

CBA (20-4-4) – Head coach Ryan Bogan lost last year’s top scorer when Bobby Hampton (3340-73) transferred to Middletown North, but the Colts are deep enough that they remain prime contenders for the private state title.

Conor Tierney (15-29-44) should lead the way offensively, with classmates Greg Malafronte (10-919) and Austen Tieri (2-11-13) and sophomore Derek Contessa (1012-22) expected to take on larger roles up front. Junior Ryan Bogan (10-41-51) headlines the defensemen alongside classmates Michael Foggia (6-11-17) and James Stanger (3-6-9). Junior Michael Cernero (.931) was replaced in the first period of last year’s state final but had been strong all year and should get the majority of the minutes in 2014-15. The Colts will continue to compete in both the Gordon Conference and Shore A North Division, leaving no scheduling room for non-league games.

Delbarton (20-5-3) –The target on Delbarton’s back may be slightly smaller this year after the Green Wave’s failure to win a seventh consecutive state title in 2014.

Head coach Bruce Shatel does welcome back two-thirds of his top line, as juniors Tyler Kobryn (1710-27) and Anthony DelGaizo (819-27) were part of a unit that topped the +60 mark last year.

Shatel will also look to seniors Harrison Newman (9-8-17) and Kevin Obssuth (4-7-11) on offense, with potential spark from sophomore Steven Agriogianis and freshman Nick Siffringer. Defensively, sophomore goalie Troy Kobryn (.904) started all last season and has an experienced cast of defensemen led by senior Sean Petrie (413-17) and junior Andrew Petrillo

Hunter Garlasco Don Bosco

Tyler Lapchanski Pope John

(3-13-16), bolstered this year by freshman Jalen Kaplan. Delbarton will face Massachusetts powers Malden Catholic and Catholic Memorial in late December and, in addition to annual contests against Connecticut schools Brunswick, Fairfield Prep, and Hotchkiss, the Green Wave will compete in the Springfield Cathedral tournament in February.

Don Bosco Prep (16-5-3) – After beating Delbarton two times out of three, including the Gordon Cup final, the Ironmen thought last year was their chance to win their first state title, but a quarterfinal upset at the hands of St. Augustine Prep ended those dreams. Head coach Greg Toskos brings back one of the state’s top playmakers in Hunter Garlasco (8-23-31), and senior Connor Healey (2-3-5) hopes to play a full season on defense after battling injuries last year. Senior Stephen Bressi and sophomore C.J. McGee will be key on defense, while senior Michael Jordan, junior Chris Mazzella, and sophomores Ryan McLinsky and Matt Brown should all contribute on defense.

Sophomore goalie Alexei Masanko split time with senior Jarred Liscio last year and went 7-2-1, winning big games at Delbarton and against CBA in the Gordon Cup semifinals. Don Bosco Prep’s schedule includes out-of-state tests against

Sasha Miniouchine Bergen Catholic

BC High and Fairfield Prep for the second straight year.

Pope John (17-6-2) – After winning the National Division last year, Pope John moves up to the state’s top division and should be plenty competitive. Head coach Ryan Brown can count on veteran leadership from the returning quartet of senior forward Donny Flynn (24-36-60), junior forward Richie Halevy (9-9-18) and senior

defensemen Charlie Spetz (15-1328) and Tyler Lapshanski (3-1316). Freshman defenseman John Spetz brings good size and could contribute at forward or on defense. In goal, freshman George Bennett should challenge senior Zach Bernstein and junior Kailen Mahabir for the vacant starting job.

Bergen Catholic (10-13-1) – Second-year head coach Brian Monteverdi brings back several contributors from his first campaign at Bergen Catholic, highlighted by seniors Kyle Marano (911-20) and Tyler Antonucci (9-716). Other key contributors are senior Lucas Milbank, juniors Sasha Miniouchine and Pierre LaMonica, and sophomores Bryan Hallenbeck and Diarmad DiMurro.

Goaltending is a question mark, however, after Gennaro Anzevino graduated and Pete Negron transferred to Kent. Junior Sal Farruggia and sophomores Francis Forte and Tyler Savino are expected to battle for playing time.

Gordon ConferenCe - national division

St. Peter’s, Eustace Could Emerge Bishop Eustace (2-11-2) – After several lean years, Bishop Eustace head coach Mike Green expects to have his most talented team since the 2009 squad that went 22-6 and reached the Gordon Cup final and private semifinals. The talent starts with two recognizable names in senior forward Chayse and sophomore goalie Cayden Primeau, sons of former NHLer Keith Primeau, both of whom have verbally committed to Northeastern. The elder Primeau is joined up front by senior Eric DiPretoro and juniors Mario Tropea and Matt Hinkie, while senior David Paklan and junior Aaron Maguyon provide depth. On the blue line, seniors Michael Melloni and Danny Coia are the key men in front of the younger Primeau. The Crusaders will have a chance to make noise right away; they face both Don Bosco Prep and Delbarton in the season’s first 11 days.

St. Peter’s Prep (11-9-3) – Two years removed from reaching the private semifinals, St. Peter’s Prep should challenge for the National Division title this year. Head coach Mike Goodrich brings back twothirds of his top line in senior Sean Crowley (16-23-39) and junior Augie Burkhardt (14-23-37), while junior Chris Picnic leads an experienced group of defensemen in front of senior goalie Jonathan Labella.

Sophomores Matt Koziel, Mike Zdanowicz, Steven Zuckerman, and (Continued On Page 46)

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New JeRSey HS PReview

Morris County Preview

Morristown-Beard Ready To Go

Morristown-Beard (20-5-3) – The 2013-14 season will go down as the greatest in Morristown-Beard history, as the Crimson won a share of their first NJSIAA championship (the long-standing program did not join the state’s main governing body until 2000-01) and beat crosstown bully Delbarton for the first time in 20 years and 44 games (0-40-4) in the state semifinals.

Offense Looks Strong For Randolph

Bryan Early Randolph

Garrett Stenberg Randolph

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Controversy aside, head coach Randy Velischek lost his two leading scorers to graduation but returns most other contributors. Junior goalie Dan Porth, who made 30 saves in the upset of Delbarton, returns behind senior James Callahan and juniors Christian and A.J. DiCesare. Up front, sophomore Alex Borowiec (15-17-32) leads the way, along with seniors Chris Brunner-Grande (11-11-22) and Thomas Rago (10-12-22) and sophomore Teddy Hatfield (6-4-10), whose shootout attempt caused all the commotion. Freshman forward Brayden Patricia is the biggest addition to the Crimson offense.

Randolph (14-7-3) – The state’s top Public A program, Randolph has ground out state championship after state championship (four in the last six years, including three straight from 2011-13) thanks to a deep roster that outskates opponents and surrenders few goals. Head coach Rich McLaughlin may have a little more offense this year, as the Rams return five of their top forwards in the senior trio of Noah Leinwand (11-12-23), Mike Slavin (6-13-19), and Matt Bruno (2-8-10), complemented by juniors Dan Janson (9-7-16) and Chris Holowko (5-4-9). Senior goalie Garrett Stenberg (6-2-2, .908) split time last season and should be solid, but his defense corps is less experienced, led by junior Bryan Early and sophomore Jack Zimmer.

Morris Knolls (14-10-5) – After a sub-par regular season in 2013-14, albeit in the state’s toughest division, Morris Knolls received an at-large bid to the Public A state tournament and ran off four shutouts in five games to take its second state championship. Having graduated a pair of 17-goal scorers and their starting goaltender, the Golden Eagles will have to re-tool, but head coach Walt Keiper’s group should still be a prime contender in Public A. Senior forwards Reed Pelliconi (9-15-24), Chris Rupp (9-11-20), and Tucker Simmons (5-11-16) will be counted on to lead the offense, supported by senior Matt Dreisbach (4-7-11), senior Alex Urbanski (6-4-10), junior Danny Cangelosi (3-3-6), and sophomore Chris Conway (3-2-5). The defense is led by senior Daniel Abaunza, joined by senior Jonathan Kwestel and junior Robbie Schweizer. Junior Jon Szynalski is expected to get first shot at the starting goaltending job.

Chatham (18-4-4) – Entering last March, Chatham had just three losses, all to private schools, and was the favorite to win a second consecutive Public B title. But division rival Morristown, who Chatham had beaten 4(Continued On Page 47)

Gordon Conference - National Division (Continued From Page 45)

Steve Jacobs, General Manager | Jon Fontas, Director of Player Development

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twins Nick and Matt Gallo should also contribute, giving the Marauders more depth than they have had in recent years.

The remaining teams in the National Division are all trying to climb over the .500 mark after down seasons. Gloucester Catholic (5-12-3) should return senior Jeff Eppright (4-12-16) and senior goalie Andrew Sharkus, while St. Augustine Prep (12-9-1) needs more consistent regular-season play to augment its history of postseason success. Four-time state champion Seton Hall Prep (3-14-4) is trying to build its way back to relevance behind seniors Matt Farrell (7-5-12) and Nick Sandomeno (2-4-6), joined up front by junior Keith Bishop (5-5-10).

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Page 47

New JeRSey HS PReview

Morris County: State Champ Morristown Must Rebuild (Continued From Page 46) Mendham (20-5-3) – It came as no surprise, but after winning back-to0 and 5-2 during the regular season, stunned the Cougars with a 2-1 upset, back Halvorsen Cups, Mendham enters a rebuilding year of sorts after the leaving Chatham without a league or state title. Head coach Frank Gilberti departure of 100-point scorer Grant Jozefek to junior hockey and the gradwill miss Kent transfer Teddy Simson this year, but seniors C.J. Albanese uation of linemates Paul Michura and Matt Farina and defensive leader (.928) in goal, Dan Albanese (1-10-11) on defense, and William Barnett Pierce Mead. Head coach John Kovacs’ Minutemen will still be among the (12-8-20), Jack O’Connor (10-7-17), and Bryn Casey (7-8-15) should all favorites in the second-tier Halvorsen Division, led by senior Nathan return for the last hurrah from Chatham’s best class in years.

Biery, junior Tyler Marshuetz, and sophomore Kyle Caddo on defense.

Morristown (16-8-4) – Having made three straight appearances in a Seniors Nik Hedergren (20-26-46) and Alex Ferrer (5-9-14), junior Matt public state championship game, culminating with a 1-0 upset of Ramsey Lavalette (9-6-15), and sophomore Tim Naval (5-10-15) are capable of in last year’s Public B final, Morristown providing the offense, and sophomore will not fly under anyone’s radar this year.

Dylan Euvino returns in goal. Sophomore But head coach Bobby Jones lost nine senRyan McCann and freshmen John iors and must find a goaltending replaceInganamort, Thomas Nardone, and Tanner ment for three-year starter Shane Brown, Brown could all play roles as newcomers. who will concentrate on junior hockey this Montville (21-3-2) – Montville thrived season. Younger brother Harrison Brown, under first-year head coach Meg Hishmeh a sophomore, saw some minutes last year last year, getting off to a 12-0-1 start and and will battle freshman Evan Szary for entering the postseason with just one loss. the starting spot. Role players last year, A Haas Cup semifinal loss to Mount Olive Dan Whritenour Jack Nussbaum Justin Leifer Morristown’s huge junior class will be soured the Mustangs’ season, but they Kinnelon Kinnelon Morristown centerpieces this year, led by the forward should be able to handle the move to the line of Bradley Greik (10-3-13), Jakob DeFares (8-8-16), and Christian Halvorsen Division with senior Josh Beron (.897) in goal, senior Joe Rodriguez (8-6-14) and the defense trio of Kyle Beyer (2-10-12), Justin Belcastro (3-11-14) and sophomore James Reynolds (11-6-17) on the blue Leifer (3-9-12), and Nick Swiontkowski (5-4-9). Freshmen younger broth- line, and seniors Vinnie Arlotta (24-22-46) and Tom Marabondo (4-11-15) ers Nate DeFares and Drew Shandlay and defenseman Jay Horan could all skating with junior Emerosn Emery (20-18-38) up front. get a chance to contribute right away, and Morristown’s tough schedule Roxbury (11-9-2), Pequannock (12-10-2), and West Morris Central should prepare them for yet another postseason run.

(10-11-2), led by forward Anthony Piombino (19-12-31), should all conKinnelon (14-11-2) – Since appearing in back-to-back Public B title tend in the Halvorsen Division, with Mountain Lakes / Boonton (6-11-2) games in 2008-09 (winning in 2008), Kinnelon has only reached the semi- battling to stay in the division for next year. finals once, and they remain underdogs in the highly competitive Mennen In Morris County’s lower divisions, familiar faces like Madison (17-8Division this year. Versatile senior Dan Whritenour (2-11-13) returns, but 2) and Park Regional (15-9-1) should lead the way, with Sparta (4-16-3), head coach Jeff Myhren will need a scoring threat to emerge from a pack Newton / Lenape Valley (11-14), and Mount Olive / Hopatcong (13-10of forwards that includes senior Ryan Less (4-5-9) and sophomores Sean 1) trying to keep up.

Grant (5-2-7) and Jack Nussbaum.

Middletown North (14-10) – Middletown North was expected to have a strong team, but Lions head coach Matt Clemente got a welcome surprise when CBA transfer Bobby Hampton (33-40-73), who had been expected to play only club hockey this season, decided to join the

Tom Terranova Middletown North

Todd Goehring Red Bank Catholic

Shore Conference: Middletown North Hard To Stop squad. “It definitely changes the expectations of this team … it’s not every day the best player in the state walks into your locker room,” Clemente told the Asbury Park Press. He will become eligible in January due to his transfer status and instantly gives Middletown North perhaps the top line in the state when joining senior Tom Terranova (24-21-45) and junior Khristian Acosta (21-19-40), both proven scorers. Add in senior Tim Felice (5-15-20) and juniors Vince Tomasetti (16-14-30), and Kevin Felice (8-6-20), and the Lions will be hard to stop. Defensively, seniors Zack Gazette and Nick Kirch are both in their fourth seasons, joined on the blue line by junior Ryan Davidson and freshman Kyle Gowarack. In net, neither

senior Mike Corella nor junior Anthony Manfredi saw time last season.

Red Bank Catholic (19-2-3) – Red Bank Catholic dominated most of its 2013-14 season, winning the first Shore Conference Tournament, but the Caseys’ only two losses saw them surrender nine goals against Gordon Conference opponents. With three lines and four defensemen returning, head coach Ken Carlson is determined to prepare his team for the postseason. So Red Bank Catholic will play a tougher nonleague schedule. Offense is not likely to be a problem. The Caseys return 6-foot-4 junior Evan Hoey (33-20-53), one of the state’s top players, along with senior Todd Goehring (15-15-30) and (Continued On Page 48)

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DecemBer 10, 2014

New Jersey Hs Preview (Continued From Page 47)

junior Alec Mintz (14-22-36), among other offensive weapons. Senior defenseman Matt Chinichi is also among the state’s best, and sophomore Garrett Bade brings a physical presence in front of senior Brandon Rozzi and junior Matt Benjamin, competing for time in goal.

St. John Vianney (6-11-2) – New head coach Mick Messemer passed his first test with flying colors, convincing junior hockey standouts Matt Kidney and Mike Gelatt to re-join the program for their senior seasons after sitting out last year due to junior hockey commitments. When present, potential Division I recruits Kidney (20-17-37 in 2012-13) and Gelatt (16-20-36 in 2012-13) are two of the conference’s top forwards and will make the Lancers a threat in every contest; the duo led St. John Vianney to the Handchen Cup title two years ago. Senior forward Joe Murray (8-1018), senior defenseman Liam Casey (2-10-12), and senior goalie Jimmy Ellis, a four-year starter, all return.

Freehold Township (16-9-1) will be led by senior forward Greg Russo and boasts two outstanding defensemen in junior Zach Berzolla (drafted by the USHL and OHL) and sophomore Julian Kislon. Howell (18-7-2) should also be contenders, returning one of the conference’s leading scorers in senior forward Kyle Hallbauer (44-2973) and bringing back sophomore goalie Bobby Dovonero, senior defenseman Nick Bernhardt, and junior forward Lee McCarthy. Brick Township (17-6-3) is likely to be rebuilding after losing nine influential seniors, but senior forward Brian Lange will try to lead a young team that includes forwards James Wiater (9-11-20) and Michael Mooney (5-9-14) and goalie Jake Lakatos, who all return after gaining valuable experience as freshmen. Brick Memorial (7-143) brings back senior forward Ryan Monaghan (10-5-15) and sophomore defenseman Justin Hulse (5-12-17), and the Mustangs have a potential game-changer in net in freshman Andrew Solbiski. Other key players in the Shore Conference include senior forward Owen Herrington (25-35-60) from Point Pleasant Borough (16-4-3), junior Brendan Ban (10-2131), and sophomore Conor Deverin (20-10-30), both of Rumson-Fair Haven (7-9-2). At Manasquan /Pt.Pleasant Beach (5-11-3), there is a new face on the bench this year, and a famous one at that: Former Stanley Cup and NCAA champion Jim Dowd, the second-leading scorer in New Jersey history from his 1980s playing days at Brick Township, has taken over as head coach.

Shore CoNfereNCe

Brandon Rozzi Red Bank Catholic

Matt Kidney St. John Vianney

Ryan Monaghan Brick Memorial

Owen Herrington Point Pleasant Borough

Big North CoNfereNCe

Ramsey A Favorite Paramus Catholic Strong Ramsey (28-3) – The county’s premier public-school program, Ramsey is on a remarkable seven-year run that has included four 20-win seasons and two additional 19-win seasons.

The Rams have claimed just one Public B championship during that period, back in 2009, and were upset 1-0 in last year’s final on a lastminute goal. But head coach Bob Toy brings back his entire top line, include Alex Whelan (43-37-80), the rare New Jersey player to earn a Division I scholarship (Quinnipiac) while playing four years of public-school hockey.

Whelan is joined on the top unit by fellow seniors Nick Botta (23-20-43) and Connor Edwards (10-6-16), while twins Frank (14-923) and Anthony (4-11-15) Steffe solidify a deep, three-line team. The question marks are on the blue line, where junior Brandon O’Callahan (4-11-15) is the only proven standout, but with the return of sophomore Tyler Harmon (18-3, 0.72, .951) in goal, the Rams should be heavy favorites to reclaim the Public B crown, and they will also expect to push Don Bosco Prep to the limit in the Bergen County Tournament.

Two years after reaching the private semifinals with a stunning 27-2 campaign, Paramus Catholic (16-7-2) remains the team to beat in the Big North’s Patriot (formerly Gold) Division. Senior defenseman Kevin Booth is one of the league’s top players, joined by senior Keith Henning on the blue line, and junior goalie John Pitera was first team all-conference

Alex Whelan Ramsey

Nick Botta Ramsey

last year. Up front, senior Derek Sabato (1819-37) led the way last year, backed by sophomore Nick Carnevale and juniors Anthony Caporrino and Matt Rainey.

Senior Mickey Legg returns in goal for Ridgewood (19-6), which has strength on the blue line in junior Harry Bahrenburg and senior Slater Neborsky and versatility from captain Tommy Aynilian. Fair Lawn (11-10-1), led

by Joey Ferrante (15-16-31) and senior Mark Williams (27-20-47), and River Dell/ Westwood (12-7-4) should also be competitive.

In the Freedom (formerly Silver) Division, Glen Rock (23-3) is looking for a third straight cup title after a very strong campaign that ended when the Panthers were upset in the Public B quarterfinals. Despite losing four leading scorers, head coach Sergio Fernandez sees veterans return in every position, led by junior Matt Rosario in goal, senior Griffin Meyers on defense, and seniors Brandon Rosario, (13-16-29) Peter Tatigian (13-14-27), and Ryan Castellano at forward. St. Joseph Montvale (15-9-1) will likely be the top challenger, led by seniors Ryan Grieco (12-12-24) (Continued On Page 49)

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New Jersey Hs Preview Ridge (14-6-6) – Ridge is one of the state’s most consistent programs, seeded among the top five teams in its state-tournament bracket in seven of the last eight years.

Head coach Tim Mullin’s team offers a strong top line of seniors Tim Knightly (14-9-23), Ian Soloman (5-12-17), and Jack Kelly (7-8-15), with the experienced tandem of Cole Sanderson (2-16-18) and Ben Raff (6-7-13) manning the blue line. Seniors Sean Sweeney and Drew Taveroni are expected to split time in net. Senior Gavin Kirkwood (8-8-16) should also contribute on the offensive end, and

production from sophomores Jack Mandala, Dan Knightly, and Ted Kapp would make the Red Devils a formidable team in Public A once again.

Bridgewater-Raritan (20-5-3) – Bridgewater-Raritan knows postseason success, but also knows heartbreak after losing in the Public A championship game in 2007, 2013, and 2014. The Panthers have a strong senior class hoping to turn around those fortunes this year, led by the defense pairing of Ian Anderson and Brett Goldstein.

Those two are joined by sophomore Sarik Vasani to form one of the

Big north ConferenCe

Ryan Grieco St. Joseph Montvale

Ed Klein St. Joseph Montvale

Sean Komjian Lakeland Regional

(Continued From Page 48)

and Matt McNamara (3-13-16) and junior defenseman Ed Klein. Tenafly (12-10-2) is always strong defensively, especially with the return of sophomore goalie Kyle Picinic (.931), and will count on seniors Eric L’Heureux (9-11-20) and Jake Bernstein (9-10-19) for offense.

Paramus/Lyndhurst/Hackensack (10-13) should have more depth this year after absorbing the sputtering program at Hackensack. The Spartans will be led by defensemen Joe Reveille and C.J. Anderson and forwards Dan Criscione, Evan Calendrillo, Thomas Foschini, Evan Kelly, and Matt Moran.

In the Liberty (formerly Green) Division, Ramsey is everybody’s pick to finish first, but the field is wide open after that. Wayne Hills (15-7-2) finished second last year and returns senior forward Danny Reidel, one of the conference’s top offensive options. Lakeland (12-12) will look to seniors Sean and Danny Mullin to lead the offense, and the Lancers also welcome sophomore Andrew Heck as a transfer from Don Bosco Prep, while junior Sean Komjian returns in goal. Indian Hills (10-11-4) will be typically strong on defense thanks to senior goalie Josh Welte and defenseman Jon Hoogendorn. Mahwah (8-10-5) has two solid offensive options in Tyler Gutierrez and the versatile Marty Kapoian, as does West Milford (12-9-3) with senior Joey Fenui and sophomore Chris Dressler.

Ramapo (9-12-3) has strong goaltending in Chris Raymond, while Wayne Valley (0-19-2) expects to get back into the win column.

Skyland ConferenCe Ridge, Bridgewater-Raritan Have Strong Senior Classes state’s most formidable publicschool defenses, but goalies Josh Garner and Corey Fewer are untested. Up front, head coach Patrick Alvin has a very strong trio in seniors Will Dimock and Eddie Weissman and junior Alec Casiero.

Hunterdon Central (11-11-2) returns goalie Carter Siani (.923)

and has two elite players in forward Brian Brown (5-12-17) and defenseman Matt Kandel, in his first year with the program.

Hillsborough (10-13-4), Montgomery (9-11-5), and Pingry (8-10-2) will be looking to regain their form from years past.

MK Favored In Essex County Montclair Kimberley (15-7-2) – Overwhelming favorites in Essex County, Montclair Kimberley has a young team but will still be aiming to improve on its 2-13 record in the state tournament since 1995. Senior goalie Ike Osbun (.902) and explosive junior forward Devin Pepe (2125-46) are the Cougars’ standouts, with junior Conor Nolan and sophomore James Buckley also expected to provide offense. Sophomore Zach Schaller and senior Casey Hunter will key the defense.

Livingston (15-7-4) will rely on senior forward Josh Delsani, who has one of the conference’s top shots, while Nutley (13-9-2) will count on senior forward Mike Frade to pick up much of the offensive slack, aided by junior Zach Vaughn, while senior Angelo Gaeta leads the defense in front of goalies Tim Spitalnik and Joe Hoarle. Montclair (8-9-4), with only two senior contributors, could be one year away from a breakthrough year, led by juniors Remy Parker (15-8-23) and Brock Bowers (11-9-20) up front and Shane Duffy on the blue line, with sophomore Ondrej Smalec back for a second year in goal. Freshman Conrad Sarbek could contribute right away either up front or on defense.

A young Verona / Glen Ridge (17-6-3) team will be led by senior forward Stephen Wenzl (23-9-32), junior defenseman Kevin White, and senior goalie Cam Giulianelli. Freshman defensemen Sean DeCandia and Anton Martino provide hope for the future. Others to watch in Essex County include West Essex forward Henry Mead and Millburn goalie Gabe Nadell, who takes over in net for graduated older brother Corey.

Zack Vaughan Nutley

Joe Hoarle Nutley

* For More New Jersey League Previews - go to hnibnews.com

Casey Hunter Montclair Kimberley

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DecemBer 10, 2014

New eNglaNd girls Hs

By Gary Demopoulos • HNIB News

M

aine high school hockey now features 16 girls varsity hockey teams, split up with eight teams apiece in the East and West Divisions.

In the East, Lewiston (15-5-1) made it to last year's state title game and all things point for another huge campaign. "From the defensive end we are as solid as we were a year ago and offensively we have added more scoring punch," said coach Ron Dumont.

Offense will come from the likes of seniors Erin Lemieux and Mikaela Brown, junior Corinne Laberge and sophomore Allison Frechette.

Freshman Jordan Moynahan hopes to contribute.

On the blue line for the Blue Devils, senior Erin Hubbard is a

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Pine Tree State Boasts 16 Varsity Teams Lewiston, Greely Early Favorites In East top returner. Two new freshmen Lauren DeBlois and Jaylin Cloutier - join the club. In goal, senior Paige Fontaine returns, with freshman Meagan Gosselin in the mix.

Greely (14-4-0) has won two of the last three state titles and has set its sights firmly on getting another one. Veteran coach Nate Guerin feels his team will be a strong candidate to win it all.

Key returners for the Rangers include junior forward Danita Storey (45 pts) and sophomore defenseman Ellie Schad (20 pts).

Expect freshman forward Courtney Sullivan to be an immediate contributor on offense.

Leavitt/Little Poland (15-3-0) should be right there as well, provided the Red Hornets can replace some offense lost to graduation.

Sophomores Mariah Vaillancourt (22 pts) and Haley Frohlich, and senior Emma Martineau will be key forward returners for coach Shon Collins. Two freshmen ready to chip in right away are Saige Arsenault and Grace McBride.

On defense, senior Danica Nadeau (21 pts) is a rock, and returns along with sophomore Kaylee Younk and Allison MacKenzie (9pts). Both goalies also return in senior Tori Sanford and sophomore Savannah Shaw.

Also expecting to be in the mix is Yarmouth/Freeport/Gray-New Gloucester (14-5-1). Coach Jeff Haley is hoping his team can exude strong character, strong defense and goaltending.

Seniors Emily Johnson (33 pts) and Katie Brown (19 pts) will be relied on offensively, along with sophomore Katie Clemmer (13 pts).

Senior captaain Michelle Robichaud (25 pts) anchors the blue line. Senior goalie Hannah Williams registered seven shutouts last winter.

Newcomers to watch include junior defenseman Jenny Holmquist, junior Keeley Arnold and freshman Emma Matusovich.

Paige Veilleux Winslow

Looking to improve is Winslow (2-15-1), which will have 13 girls new to the program.

Key players for coach Chris Downing project to be juniors Paige Veilleux (6 goals) and Mirande Gagne, who can play either forward or defense, and junior defenseman Hillary Libby.

Brunswick (2-15-1) is looking to surprise some teams in the Eastern Division with a heavy focus on defense and timely scoring.

Seniors Emily Yuodsnukis and Kristine Lajoie, and junior Tessa Cassidy are key forward holdovers for coach A.J. Kavanaugh.

Freshman Colleen McKearney will step right in and be a factor, while freshmen Maddie Gaudreau and Autumn Thoits hope to contribute.

A pair of juniors - Caitlyn Olson and Maddie Wilkes - will be cornerstones on defense for the Dragons. Freshman Madeline Berry will have a role. In goal, look for junior Jordan Van Savage.

Back in the varsity wars is St. Dominic's, which played a junior varsity schedule last winter.

Special teams play will be key, said coach Paul Gosselin.

(Continued On Page 51)

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New eNglaNd g irls Hs

• Maine Girls Western Division •

Defending Champ Scarborough Young But Talented Falmouth Ready To Make A Serious Playoff Run (Continued From Page 50)

Top players for the Saints look to be senior forward Jessica Boulet, junior forward Tia Rotolico, sophomore defenseman Alexis Kesaris and senior goalie Taylor Bergeron.

Mt. Ararat is also in the Eastern Division. No information was available as of press time.

In the Western Division, defending state champ Scarborough (210-0) needs to rebuild and will have 10 freshmen on the roster. Coach Caitlin Cashman says the Red Storm will be young, but she still expects to be in the top five.

Up front, look for a pair of sophomores - Meghan Doak and Sami Shoebottom - to have huge roles.

On the blue line, senior Kristen Murray and sophomore Lily Nygren will be anchors.

Keep an eye on Falmouth (14-60), where coach Rob Carrier could have the deepest team he's had in years. The Yachtsmen fully expect to be in the West race.

A host of forwards are capable of scoring, led by juniors Sarah Hutcheon (17 pts) and Camden Carrier (23 pts), and sophomores Evie Clement (24 pts) and Devon Sarazin (14 pts). Freshmen Abby Lebel and Stone Carmichael are ready to go.

Falmouth also welcomes back four defensemen, a group that includes seniors Meg Pierce and Alta Farrell, junior Martina St.

Evie Clement Falmouth

Martina St. Angelo Falmouth

Angelo (20 pts) and sophomore Caroline Proctor (20 pts).

A good group returns at Biddeford (13-7-0), which has the Tigers optimistic they can have a big season.

Up front, coach Ashley Potvin can rely on seniors Brea Rivard (20 pts), Abbie Paquette (12 pts) and Cassidy Petit, and junior Suzette Lamoureux.

Defensively, senior Mallory Mourmouras and junior Taylor Turgeon are key returners. Expect freshman Paige Boudreau to contribute right away.

In goal, Biddeford can turn to either sophomore Rebekah Guay or freshman Ailaina Keely.

With a senior heavy roster, coach Bob Mills of the Cape E l i z a b e t h / Wa y n f l e t e / S o u t h Portland co-op (10-8-0) thinks his team can build on last winter's solid club which won the program's firstever playoff game.

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Sarah Hutcheon Falmouth

A lot of production returns, including seniors Kathryn Clark (36 pts), Julia Ginder (18 pts) and Allison Mills (18 pts), and sopho-

more Hannah Bosworth (33 pts).

Freshman Laura Baginski will look for time.

Sophomores Kate Ginder (18 pts) and Eliza Connolly anchor things defensively.

In goal, senior Lily Jordan is a two-time All Western Conference Selection. Freshman Abby Joy will press for time.

After a winless season a year ago, things should be on the upswing for Portland/Deering (0-18-0).

Coach Tim Murphy will look for returning players like Georgia Drew, Delaney Stokes, Lauren McIntyre and Ebba Eriksson to lead the improvement movement.

Newcomers Elli Boothe and Maeve Leclair will chip in as well.

York, Cheverus and Gorham/Bonny Eagle will also compete in the Western Division.

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Grades 9 - Post Post Graduate, Graduate, • Grades Boarding, and Day Day Boarding, Average class size size of eight • Average students Outstanding Division Division I girls’ girls and • Outstanding boys’ hockey hockey pr ograms boys’ programs New state-of-the-art state-of-the-art ice ar • New arena • Located on a beautiful hilltop D campus with an 18-hole Donald Ross golf course, just an hour Ross from B oston, M assachusetts from Boston, Massachusetts Excellent college placement • Excellent recent graduates have have gone on recent Boston University, Univ Univ niversity ersity,, Northersity N to Boston eastern, M iddleburyy, Y iddlebur eastern, Middlebury, Yale, Hobart, Cornell, Cornell, Pr P rovidence, Hobart, Providence, Oswego, A ssumption, and Oswego, Assumption, Sacr acred ed H eart, as well well Sacred Heart, as other colleges and universities universities

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• Rhode Island Girls Hockey •

By Gary Demopoulos • HNIB News

R

hode Island's nine girls varsity teams will be in one division this winter. At the end of the season, the top four teams in the standings will play for the Division I championship, and teams 5-8 will play for the Division II title. Bay View Academy is not in the league this winter.

Defending Division I state champ Warwick Co-op (17-6-0), the first public school team to win the title in RI, has the pieces for a serious title run.

The Lady Titans return a dynamic scoring duo in juniors Madison Balutowski (32 goals) and Kelsey Holmes (33 pts). A solid defensive nucleus for coach David Tibbetts is comprised of senior Savannah Hersey (21 pts), junior Alyssa Matthews (16 pts) and sophomore Natasha Savage (20 pts). Also back is senior goaltenders Erin Vermyle.

Also ready to contribute are juniors Caroline Henn, Victoria Lafazia, Samla Pratt, Abi Given, Marianna Brown and Makenzie Driscoll.

Expect LaSalle Academy (15-60) to be right there as well. The Lady Rams have a solid nucleus, which will mesh with some other players returning to high school hockey.

Three of the team's captains - sen-

Warwick, LaSalle Lead Nine-Team Field

Kelsey Holmes Warwick

Madison Balutowski Warwick

Natasha Savage Warwick

Savannah Hersey Warwick

Meghan Miller Barrington

Michaela McNamara LaSalle

Cailin Catarina LaSalle

Amanda Blackmar LaSalle

Emily Coughlin LaSalle

Emily Cardon Burrillville

iors Michaela McNamara (42 pts), Cailin Catarina (21 pts) and Amanda Blackmar - will be key forwards, along with junior Arianna Boscia (28 pts). Two freshmen to watch up front are Kristina Kim and Eliza Mahoney.

On defense, senior captain Emily Coughlin (22 pts) will be the anchor for coach Sean McNamara.

Sophomore Maleah Gillette is back

as well. Freshman Jamie Comeau will help out. A starting goalie will emerge from pre-season workouts.

South County (12-10-2), made up of players from Narragansett, North Kingstown and South Kingstown, could be a sleeper in the race. Solid team defense will be key, said coach Dave Cannon.

The Storm should get serious production from returning forwards Brooke McGreen (35 pts) and Nicole Carvalho (35 pts), along with forward/defenseman Caitlin McGuirl (21 pts).

Maddy Ward (14 pts) and Tea Williams (17 pts) are two more key defensemen. Freshman Emma Riel looks for a big season. Alexis Marciniak will handle the goaltending chores.

The Barrington Co-op (13-4-4) has pretty much done all it can at the Division II level, and the Eagles will be shooting for a Division I title this winter.

Leading the way offensively for coach Deneen Stebenne will be the senior pair of Meghan Miller (29

pts) and Kelly Kraunelis (20 pts).

Freshmen Carissa Rego and Grace Flaherty should contribute right away.

Senior Leah Hoder (14 pts) and junior Alison Kelsey (14 pts) are defensive cornerstones. In goal, look for senior Helen Prates or freshmen Erika Keller.

Be sure that Mount St. Charles (7-9-0) will come to play every night, as they look to challenge for the top division.

Coach Tony DiLorenzo reports that the Mounties return seven players from last winter's club.

Leadership will come from senior forward Jordan McComb (22 pts) and junior defenseman Melanie Foster (14 pts).

The Mount roster will be bolstered by the infusion of eight new players to the roster.

The Burrillville/Ponaganset Coop (8-7-1) welcomes a new coach in Cortney Lacey, who will have her troops ready to go from day one.

(Continued On Page 55)

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Hockey NigHt iN BostoN News

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DecemBer 10, 2014

New eNglaNd girls Hs

Essex, BFA-St. Albans Early Vermont Metro Favorites

By Gary Demopoulos • HNIB News

T

he state of Vermont crowns girls HS champions in two divisions - Metro (D1) and Lake (D-2).

The defending champion in Division I is Essex (18-1-4). The Hornets expect to compete once again, especially with a strong senior class.

A dynamic duo up front for coach John Maddalena will be senior Kathleen Young (32 goals) and senior Melanie Theriault (38pts).

Senior rock Tiffany Barnes will lead the defense, while the Hornets also return a strong senior goalie in Victoria Gibson (0.72 gaa).

Also right there at top will be perennial power BFA St. Albans (17-4-2). The Comets will need to be smart and have lots of grit if they hope to return to championship status.

Veteran head coach Luke Cioffi will expect big things offensively from senior Jade Remillard (29 pts) and senior Taylor Jackson (7 pts in 11 games). Both are key forward returners. Senior Morgan Lamos will be the quarterback on the blue line for BFA.

A key non-league game has the Comets hosting five-time New Hampshire state champion Hanover on January 10th.

Middlebury (19-3-1) won the Lake Division title last year and gets the bump up to Metro this winter. Coaches believe the Tigers will compete right away. Establishing solid team chemistry between veterans and a large freshman class will be a key.

The offense should be carried by junior Emma Best, the team's leading scorer as a freshman two years ago, and sophomore Julia Carone.

Three freshmen hoping to contribute are Andi Boe, Helen Anderson and Tully Hescock.

Two solid defensemen back for coach Tim Howlett are senior Angela Carone and junior Lauren Bartlett. Expect new freshmen Abby Gleason and Satchel McLaughlin to contribute as well.

Also moving up to the Metro Division is Northfield (16-4-2), where success will depend on how well the team adjusts to being in the upper league with faster, stronger and more

experienced teams. The club does return four of its top five scorers.

The Marauders boast one of the league's premier scorers in senior Kristen Dukette (66 pts/149 career pts), who leads the offense with senior Claudia Gee (25 pts) and junior Lindsey Bergeron (25 pts). Two freshmen forwards ready to go are Catherine Miles and Bridget Doney.

Sophomore Courtney Amell (12 pts) is a rock on the blue line for coach Chris Amell and was +40 last season. Look for freshmen Brianna Doty and Julia Passalacqua to get some defensive minutes.

Spaulding (14-6-2) welcomes 10 new players to its lineup, so it will be on the young side.

Even so, the Crimson Tide returns a solid core from last winter's successful club.

Coach Brad Bessette has the luxury of returning senior Julia Ormsby (51 pts) back to lead the offense. She will be helped by senior Kassandra Peratoni and sophomore Jessica Scott (32 pts).

(Continued On Page 55)

Hockey NiGHt iN BoStoN NewS

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DecemBer 10, 2014

Page 55

New eNglaNd g irls Hs

Vermont Girls HS Hockey (Continued From Page 54)

Senior Elizah French and junior Jordyn Binaghi anchor the defense for Spaulding. Senior goalie Morgan Gosselin had a 2.29 gaa last winter.

With 11 players back in the fold, Rutland (7-11-2) has the ability to be in the mix for the top half of the Metro Division. Coach Dirk Steupert says his team will need strong goaltending and good team defense to accomplish that.

Molly Pfenning and Mia Steupert are two key forwards back for the Raiders, Newcomers Megan Hamilton and Emma Mazzariello look to contribute.

On the blue line, Alicia Williams, Kailie Matteson and Cassidy Thornton will be vital to the cause in front of returning goalie Kelsey Eddy.

In the Lake Division, North Country (12-8-1) moves down from the Metro. With a thin roster, the Falcons will have to avoid injuries.

Coach Claude Paul does return his top three scorers in senior Whitney Bernier, junior Savannah Giroux and junior Anyas Morin, so offense should be a strongpoint.

New freshman Amy Morse could be a help.

Senior Emilie Paul anchors the defense and will log a lot of time of the blue line. In goal, junior Mikayla Doran is already a threeyear starter.

Last year, Mount Mansfield (614-0) lost seven one-goal games and to improve, will have to improve in those tight contests.

At forward, senior Molly Burke (team-leading 31 pts) was a D-2 First team All Star a year ago. She will be a key player, along with sophomore forwards Lauren Hegarty (26 pts) and Anna Burke (18 pts).

• New Hampshire Girls Hockey •

Can Anyone Stop Hanover’s Quest For #6?

W

inners of the last five state titles, Hanover (21-2-0) has to start the new season as favorite again. Team chemistry is an important part of the Hanover tradition, according to coach John Dodds, and the players are already working hard to make sure this is a close group as well.

Key players for the Marauders this winter are senior forward Sarah Wagner, junior forward Matti Hartman and senior blueliner Margeaux Baker.

Hanover will again have an ambitious non-league schedule that will include BFA-St. Albans and Essex (VT), and Massachusetts powers Acton-Boxborough, Austin Prep and Andover.

Berlin (13-3-2) made it to the state title game last season and has a goal of returning again this winter. A solid group returns for coach Tanya Rosenberg.

(Continued From Page 52)

Seniors Emily Cardon and Maggie Reid will spearhead the offensive attack. Freshman Caysie Gautreau is expected to have an impact. Key returning defensemen are senior Tiara Bianco and sophomore Kayla Gravel. Another freshman - Rylee Morin - joins the blue line crew.

Another team with a new coach is Cranston/East Greenwich (4-112), which turns the reins over to P.J. Bessette. A disciplined game on defense will be key, especially with a goalie that has never played the position before.

Forwards to watch include seniors Taylor Koretsky, Isabella Balsamo and Julia Egan, and sophomore Mairin Heffernan. New sophomore Nicole Sacco hopes to crack the lineup.

Senior Sarah Pearson and sophomore Zoe Hagenburg will be vital to the Thunderbirds defense. The goal-

Sarah Wagner Hanover

Meagan Accardi Berlin

Jensyn Dandeneau Berlin

A trio of impressive forwards for the Mountaineers project to be junior Jenna Arguin (25 pts), sophomore Emma Schoebeck (21 pts) and sophomore Rylie Binette (32 pts). They will be asked to be highly involved offensively.

The defense will be built around the junior tandem of Jensyn Dandeneau (17 pts) and Meagan Accardi (19 pts), and returning junior goalie Chelsey Caron.

Looking to move up the standings will be Souhegan (6-12-0). It can

happen if the Sabers can capitalize on their chances and play solid defense.

Offensive leaders for coach Kelli Warecki look to be junior Leah Troie and junior Elizabeth SilviaChandley. Keep an eye on freshman Makayla LaChance.

Senior Cailin Dix and sophomore Anna Tobin form the cornerstones of the Souhegan defense, in front of returning senior goalie Sarah Lafleur.

tending job will be handled by junior Katelin Marandola.

The Smithfield/North Smithfield/Coventry Coop (6-10-1) is looking to build on last year’s hard work, according to coach Frank Varrecchione.

Key returning players are Ally Beaton, Ashley Shilko, Samantha McCarthy, Siobhan Kiernan, Shannon Riley, Belle Stevens, Allyie Walker, Sami Patte, Erin Drumm, Allie Gould, Emily Sheehan and Paris Lopez.

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