In the 2024-25 winter season, the Montclair Ice Hockey team fought hard despite the many challenges they faced. Led by head coach Conner Smith and assistant coach Andy Weinstein, the team finished with a competitive record of 9-12-1. With much resilience they were able to make a good run in the Kelly Cup playoffs.
Montclair began its season with a dominant 7-1 win over Frisch followed by a 6-5 win vs Freehold. After an unfortunate loss to Frisch, Montclair had to prepare for arguably the most important game in Montclair sports, The Montclair Cup versus MKA. This game on December 18th had everybody on the edge of their seats. Senior, Anders Jenkins scored both of Montclair’s goals, keeping them in the game. After a tight 3 periods , Montclair eventually lost in overtime, suffering a 3-2 loss.
During the winter break, an important highlight came when junior, Daniel Gallagher, scored the game winning overtime goal against Oratory. Montclair followed with some back and forth games while preparing to face the rival MKA again on January 17th. Unfortunately, this game wouldn’t go as well as the first resulting in a 4-2 loss. However, Montclair stayed strong as the Kelly cup playoffs were approaching. On January 24th at the American Dream Mall Rink, they would go on to win a high scoring game, 6-5 against Clifton. After a tie against Nutley, a tough loss to Scotch Plains and a quick win versus West Orange on Senior Night, the Kelly Cup playoffs began.
In the first round of the playoffs, Montclair narrowly defeated Frisch 5-4 in which senior, Logan Brown would score two. In the semifinals, they would give the second seed, Scotch Plains a run for their money. Although, losing 4-2 there was still much to be done for the NJSIAA tournament. Sadly, Montclair couldn’t quite pull it off and would lose to the tough Ridgewood squad in the first round.
In spite of these many hardships, the hockey team displayed determination and heart. With a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, Montclair’s hockey program will continue to move forward towards an even stronger season next year.