The Oxford Wildcat’s hockey team is expected to be one of the contenders in the Flint Metro League this season.
Coach Dave Hague said his squad is well-balanced and has strong senior leadership.
Last week, the Oxford icemen won non-league games against Shrine Catholic, 8-0, and Madison Heights Lamphere, 7-1.
In their only league match this year, the Wildcats lost a close contest 3-2 to Swartz Creek, which is considered one of the top teams in the Metro League, and finished second last year.
The Cats were scheduled to play Clio on Wednesday evening in Flint.
‘This should be one of the better teams we’ve had in several years,? Hague said. ‘We have seven very good seniors and good balance on offense and defense.?
So far the team has been led by senior Tim Marney who has scored nine goals and collected three assists in five games.
The defense will be anchored by four-year starter Justin Ziegelbauer.
‘He’s very solid and will be one of the top defensemen in the league this year,? Hague said.
Other senior leaders will be forwards Steven Shalayko, Adam McLoskey and Logan Fulk. Alex Ignagni and Travis Collier will help anchor the defense.
Sophomore Corey Hrishuk will start in goal.
‘He had a great freshman year and looks rock solid this year thus far,? Hague said.
Earlier in the season the team traveled to Toronto to play two teams there in exhibition play.
Hague said his group looked strong against the very good Canadian teams.
‘We had great experiences there and the team learned from the play. It will make us better this year.?
Hague said the season now heads into Metro League play with upcoming games against Lapeer West and Brandon following Wednesday’s game against Clio.
‘We are very balanced on both offense and defense and we’re expecting a lot this season.?