Underclassmen lead winning streak

Chemistry shines between ninth and tenth grade hockey players 

SECTION | Month year

With the Patriots mounting a mid-season comeback with a record of 6-4 as of January 15, crowds are already witnessing the leap the underclass-men are making.

The all-sophomore second line of Oliver Sparks (right wing), Jacob Fischer (center/right wing), and Nicholas Koster (right wing) have been proving that they belong in the rotation. They have built a strong rapport with one another with Sparks scoring a goal against Bismarck High and Koster and Fischer showing they are developing into strong playmakers with their ability to control the puck and look down the ice for scoring opportunities.

When these three are on the ice together, they have a solid plus-minus of 1.

When a player is on the ice and their team scores, they get +1. When the other team scores, the player gets -1.

On Dec. 16, Century brought a team consisting of zero seniors, two juniors and 16 freshmen and sophomores to Hazen.

Century’s first line was composed of Fischer, Sparks, sophomore Easton Eggert (center), and their freshmen defenders Reese Frykman and Jack Backes.

The underclassmen overcame a 1-3 point deficit after the second period, tying the score 3-3 at the end of the third period. 

The Patriots were unsuccessful with their scoring opportunities in the shoot-out, and Hazen stole the win in overtime. 

However, Fischer and Backes were able to score on offense, and sophomore Ian Thompson set the team up for success with multiple defense stops, causing many breakaways to start the offense. 

Thompson believes in the importance of team chemistry and is eager to see where the team will go next year. “Chemistry allows a team to see and know where everyone is on the ice, which helps us create offense and score,” Thompson said. “I am excited for all the young talent that will be on our roster next season, we all push each other so I can’t wait to see our work pay off.”

Prior to the underclassmen getting an increased workload, the Patriots were struggling with injuries and suspensions.

They started the season 0-4 and have won 6 straight regional games.

Century has quickly developed into one of the top teams in the state due to their roster depth and standout players from every grade.

They are fourth in the West Region standings and currently qualify for a spot in the state tournament.