The 2016-2017 Northview Wildcats look to regain the form that led to 5 State title game appearances and 2 state titles during a 9 year span from 2006-2014. Under new leadership from longtime assistant coach Steve Elliott the Cats will lean on a strong group of upperclassmen for leadership both on and off the ice. Assistant coaches Doug Carter and Jeremy Snyder return for their 20th and 15th years respectfully and 2011 Graduate Graham Kelsey joins the Varsity staff for his 1st season. Coaches Anthony Holley and Nick LaPlante return to guide a determined group with the Junior Varsity.
4-year letter winners Brad Crandall and Zach Doner and 3-year letter winner Matt Fink will serve as captains. Along with fellow seniors Yaseen Mustapha, Alex Zuchowski, Keegan Pipes, Chase Ortman and netminder Johny Rady the 8 have provided strong preseason leadership. Returning letterwinners Mason Snyder, Brandon Clark, Trevor Klee and Brett Blasingim will be joined by new Varsity members Sam Sparmbleck, Jake Ruehle, Ed Lammie, Justin Maroszek, Cameron Hall, Maizy Crandall, Larry Maurer, Brennen Otersen and Junior goalie Tyler Beattie.
The Varsity Cats played very well over their 1st weekend as they took on Upper Arlington this past Friday and Saturday. Net Minding partners Johny Rady and Mason Snyder provided solid goaltending while Doner Paced the offense with a pair of goals. Seniors Brad Crandall and Yaseen Mustapha also scored for the Cats.
Junior Varsity members Lauren Elliott, Yaqub Elorra, Lukas Posey, Ryan Sanderson and Spencer Atkins have took the challenge of a small roster head on and performed extremely well during their 1st weekend as they picked up a pair of wins. Junior Netminder Tyler Beattie stood tall in goal and a host of Cats scored in a 5-1 win Friday and 7-4 Saturday victory.
More than the results it was the process of developing positive team chemistry that was on display. Positive attitudes on and off the ice provide for a strong foundation for a successful season at both the Varsity and JV level.
This week the Cats JV is off but the Varsity plays a pair of Cleveland powers in University School and Walsh Jesuit. Northview will take on University School Friday Evening at 7:30 and Walsh Saturday Morning at 11:00. Admission is FREE so stop on out and support the team!
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