The Madison Dodgers High School boys’ hockey team has taken a big step forward from last years’ tough season, ending with a record of 4-16-1. Thanks to strong leadership and improved chemistry, the Dodgers are looking for their best season since the 2018-2019 season, when they won the Mennen Cup. From the first game against West Morris, the Dodgers will play with confidence, strength, and aggressiveness, setting a new standard for what they expect of themselves on and off the ice.
Leading the offense is junior Lucas Gero, whose scoring ability has made him one of the team’s most dangerous weapons. Lucas led the team last year in goals scored and assists, with 11 and 15 respectively. Whether he is creating opportunities for his teammates or finishing plays around the net, Gero has consistently provided a spark for the Dodger’s offense. His production has been a major reason that the Dodgers have stayed competitive in tough matchups. On December 4th, during their game against West Morris, Lucas had his first career hat trick, 3 goals, and had 2 assists on top of that. His dominance on offense will continue to prove to be a force to be reckoned with as the season progresses.
The team’s identity, however, is brought into focus by their 6 seniors. Patrick Layng and Modi Shi have been playing varsity hockey for all four years of high school, and are big parts of the core of the Madison hockey team. It is Dylan Hock and Euan Maxwell’s third year of varsity hockey, and although they were not on the team as freshmen, their presence is still known on the ice. Jayden Karsen has just started his first year as a Madison hockey player, and is ready to make some noise this year. These seniors are proven leaders for the Madison team, and will lead the Dodgers throughout the season, and hopefully to a cup win. When asked what a cup win would mean to him, Senior Patrick Layng stated “It would mean everything. Getting a ring would feel great. I remember watching this team when they won back in 2018-2019.” They have been working hard for so many years, so there is no doubt they will make it far.
Last but not least, there is senior goalie Nick Worthington. As the anchor of this defense, he is a reliable last resort for when opponents break through the defense. Last year, he poised an impressive .915% save rate. Nick only gave up 70 goals, on a towering 855 shots on goal. This performance was enough to secure Nick as the 33rd best goalie in the state of New Jersey. Nick has been playing goalie for most of his life, and he said “I’ve put a lot of effort in through time, and as a goalie, I do stuff off the ice.” Nick is a hard worker, and with him in the net, the Dodgers have nothing to worry about.
With a blend of young talent, leadership, and determination, the Madison Boys Hockey team is looking forward to having a great season. As they enter the beginning of the season, all of the players are locked in on one goal. Proving they are capable of making a deep run in the postseason and representing their school with Dodger Pride.
(Daily Record)