Aurora ice hockey team looks to improve on four-win season of 2021-22
The Aurora High School ice hockey squad hit the ice at the beginning of November to begin the official start of their season, looking to improve on their 4-14-1 record in 2021-22.
"We're in a really good position and have the opportunity to have a great bounce-back year," said Aurora coach Joe Lawrie. "The players have been working hard all off-season, and the additions of some new players as well has us all very excited."
The Greenmen will play in the White Division of the Greater Cleveland High School Hockey League this season, along with Avon Lake, Kenston, North Olmsted, Solon, Stow, Strongsville and Western Reserve Academy.
The icers' forward unit is full of experience, led by senior captain Conor McMahon.
"Conor will be a four-year letterman, is a great player and hard worker," said Lawrie. "He can definitely lead by example on and off the ice."
McMahon will be joined by fellow senior assistant captains Alex Harrell and Christian Viant, as well as Bennett Winkler, Charlie Hesse, Luke Reynolds, and Sam Bianco. Juniors Henry Hesse and Mateo Martinez, sophomores Matt Harrell and Ian Hilliard, and freshman William Adams round out the forwards.
"Overall our offense looks strong, we definitely have some players who can score," said Lawrie. "We're looking forward to some scrimmage games and more practices to see chemistry and get our forward lines set."
On defense, the Greenmen will be led by junior assistant captain Will Pfiffner and sophomore Brody Markle.
"Those two will be the anchors on the blue line, and both offer offensive upside as well," said Lawrie.
Juniors Michael Phillips and Frank Wiencek and sophomore Matt Smith will round out the defense.
"Defense is a tough position to play, you have to be a great skater and quick decision maker, but the D corps has looked much improved so far, they have size and have worked together," said Lawrie.
In goal, the icers have a trio of junior Colten McCrae, sophomore Raquel Bailey and freshman Max Stefano.
"We're extremely excited about our goaltending. It's shaping up to be near the top in the division," said Lawrie. "Raquel was on the team last year and transitioned to goalie. She's worked hard all summer and has improved so much. Colten and Max are both new to the team this year but look strong and bring experience with the position. We haven't had this type of goaltending depth in many years and all three will play a big part this season."
Assisting Lawrie behind the bench this year will be Lee Pfiffner, Matt Smith, and John Sheridan.
The Greenmen will drop the puck and begin their regular season on November 19 at The Pond for a non-league matchup with Chagrin Falls at 4:30 p.m. They'll begin league play the following night at 7:35 p.m. vs. Avon Lake at Hamilton Ice Arena in Rocky River.
This article originally appeared on Record-Courier: Aurora hockey will compete in the Greater Cleveland High School League
