Many of Georgetown’s sports fans are well aware that the National Hockey League starts back up this week. What they may be less aware of is the continued success of one of Georgetown’s lesser known club sports. The Georgetown club hockey team defeated Millersville University on Friday by a score of 5-3. Later in the weekend, the team earned a 9-4 road victory over the University of Richmond.
At a school that prides itself upon on its athletic achievements, the club hockey team has carved out a reputation as one of Georgetown’s most successful teams. Despite an obvious lack of notoriety and top notch facilities nearby, the team manages to stay successful with a combination of motivation and chemistry.
“It comes down to us being hungry. We can’t get on the ice as much as other teams can. We’ve played at great programs, and that’s what helps us out. We know how to play together and we can make things happen when we need to,” said junior forward Jeff Wong.
The hockey team’s impressive cohesion was on display when sophomore forward Harry Clifford broke a 2-2 tie against Millersville.
“It was a tic-tac-toe type, and [Clifford] ended up scoring,” Wong said. “That best encapsulated the way we play and our chemistry. That broke a 2-2 tie and that let us get on the board and help us get together.”
Despite adding eight freshman to the team, they still are feeling the loss of their graduated seniors, especially on the defense.
“[Our] two biggest losses were Zach Markel and Connor Broga, the best goalie and the best defenseman in the league,” Wong elaborated. “Knowing that we don’t have that same steel in net forces us to work harder and be more diligent”
Despite these losses, strong teamwork and an influx of young players have Wong and the rest of the team optimistic for the current season.
“The chances are hopefully pretty good [for success],” Wong said. “Hopefully we can have another great season and bring home another championship”
If you’re willing to make a short road trip, you can catch Georgetown club hockey’s next home game on Friday, Oct. 17 at 8:30 p.m. against the University of Delaware at the Laurel Gardens Ice House in Laurel, Md.
