If you're looking for a tough-nosed club sport, look no further than the Virginia men's ice hockey club. Last weekend, the club played two difficult games against some very tough competition -- UMBC and Lafayette. Both club teams are traditional club ice hockey powers. Lafayette defeated Virginia 7-4 in a hard fought game and UMBC defeated them 6-4.
While the club was disappointed at the results, it is likely that the outcomes were almost predictable. The team was operating with a limited roster, as a number of prominent players were not able to make the game because of other complications. Therefore, Virginia had a very short bench and was exhausted by the end of each game. Both UMBC and Lafayette had their full squads and were able to wear down Virginia because it was outnumbered.
"We only had 12 players because a number of people couldn't make it and one of our leaders was very sick," said fifth-year senior David Pettibone, an Education student. "Given the fact that we had a short bench we are proud of the effort we put forward."
The games the club played last weekend were positive experiences -- even though they ended in defeat -- because the team's strong showing against such quality opponents reflects the team's high level of preparation. The club figures to be well-prepared for the rest of the season and is shooting for a spot in the national tournament.
"We played two teams that were pretty highly ranked in the region and we performed fairly well against them even though we lost," sophomore Ed Lindquist said. "These games will help us translate this year into a good season and we will be ready when ACC competition starts."
In two weeks the club will travel to Durham to face the Duke men's ice hockey club. Duke is in the same conference as Virginia and usually competes with the Cavaliers for the conference championship. Over the past few years Duke has surfaced as Virginia's main rival.
"We always have heated games with Duke because normally either our club or Duke's club wins the conference title," Lindquist said. "Thus, the games between our two clubs normally determine who is going to win the conference."
The club is just getting started with its season, which lasts until February, at the very earliest. The team has added several new players and is eager to expose them to the fast-paced and competitive world of ACC club ice hockey. As is the case with many other sports, the ACC is an extremely competitive club ice hockey conference.
"Win or lose, these games will get everyone familiar with each other, which is important for all of our new players," senior Alex Bronson said. "These games will build our confidence and experience and ultimately help us greatly against Duke and other ACC teams."
The men's club ice hockey team enters this year with large goals and high expectations. However, one aspect of club sports that can go overlooked is the fact that club sports are supposed to be fun. Club sports are intended for individuals who want to continue to play sports they love but don't necessarily want to be a part of the demanding world of varsity sports, and the Virginia men's ice hockey club takes this doctrine to heart.
"We certainly want to be successful but our goal is always to have fun," Bronson said.
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