The Montclair High School Boys Hockey Team is gearing up to build upon a promising inaugural season in the Kelly division last year. Despite finishing with a respectable 8-11 record, the team narrowly missed out on the State Playoffs—a primary objective for the upcoming season. As they embark on this new season, it signifies the conclusion of an era for the team, bidding farewell to the graduating senior class of the previous season, the last remnants of the 2019-2020 team that competed in the State Championship.
Several notable departures from the previous season include senior captain and team points leader Miles Fletcher, alongside the team's other captain and third-leading scorer, Luc Callanan. Together, they accounted for nearly half of the team's total goals, contributing 19 out of 40 in total. This creates a substantial scoring void to fill, particularly considering that the team ranked third lowest in goals scored within the entire conference last season. In an effort to address this gap, the team is looking to bolster its offensive capabilities with the addition of a few transfers.
Among the key offseason acquisitions are sophomore twins Jack and Sean Dunne, former players for Oratory Prep. The twins are expected to contribute to the team's depth scoring. The most significant addition is Senior Sam Rotella, transferring from the Mounties' arch-rival, Montclair Kimberley Academy. Rotella boasts an impressive track record with 40 points, including 22 goals, and is anticipated to bring essential leadership to the evolving team. Additionally, the team is welcoming five freshman players who are eager to make a meaningful impact.
The Mounties are set to face a slightly more manageable schedule compared to previous years, but there are key matchups to watch. Mark your calendars for games on January 12th against Glen Rock, January 17th against Verona Glen Ridge, January 19th against Montclair Kimberley Academy, and February 12th against Passaic County Technical Institute. These contests will undoubtedly provide crucial tests for the team, as they strive for success in the new season