With the imminent commencement of the 2023-24 ice hockey season, it is imperative to direct our attention towards the returning players poised to have a substantial impact on the ice. Despite the departure of proficient seniors and underclassmen, there remains a cohort of outstanding athletes ready to lead their respective teams to triumph in the Lower Hudson Valley.
The following is an analysis of some of the foremost returning players for the forthcoming season:
Will Crotty
Educational Institution: Pelham
Year: Senior
Position: Forward
Will Crotty is a pivotal player who exhibited an impressive performance with 26 goals and 21 assists for the Section 1 Division 2 champions during the preceding season. His coach, Michael Cambria, extolled Crotty for his ability to deliver during crucial moments and his unwavering commitment to the team.
Griffin Evans
Educational Institution: Pelham
Year: Senior
Position: Forward
Griffin Evans, who achieved 22 goals and 29 assists for the NYSPHSAA Division 2 runner-ups, is renowned for his creativity and exceptional skill level. Coach Michael Cambria lauded Evans for his dedication to enhancing the performance of his teammates and his strong desire to succeed.
Sam Sobler
Educational Institution: Clarkstown North
Year: Senior
Position: Defense
Sam Sobler, who amassed five goals and 25 assists for the Section 1 Division 1 champions, is acknowledged for his outstanding performances on both ends of the ice. His coach, Peter Sherlock, highlighted Sobler’s skating, shot, and astute hockey sense, rendering him a game-changer in every match.
C.J. Soropoulos
Educational Institution: Mamaroneck
Year: Senior
Position: Defense
C.J. Soropoulos, with 17 goals and 11 assists for the Tigers, is a formidable presence on the ice. Described as a resolute and physical defenseman with a powerful shot, his coach, Mike Chiapparelli, emphasized Soropoulos’s leadership and influence on the team’s performance.
Cole Tyrell
Educational Institution: Suffern
Year: Senior
Position: Forward
Cole Tyrell led the Mounties in scoring with 13 goals and 12 assists, showcasing exceptional leadership and work ethic. His coach, Rob Schelling, attributed Tyrell for delivering crucial goals that propelled the team to the state finals.
Charlie Windwer
Educational Institution: Suffern
Year: Senior
Position: Defense
Charlie Windwer, who secured six goals and nine assists for the Mounties, is celebrated as one of the premier defensemen in the section and the state. Coach Rob Schelling acknowledged Windwer’s versatility as a swift and physical player who excels in both defensive and offensive plays.
In addition to the aforementioned top returning players, there are also impact players to anticipate in the 2023-24 season, including Henry Bagley, Nick Bonanno, Erik Cipriano, Seth Dorfman, Santino Esposito, Paul Heintz, Zyde Karame, Tyler Pomerantz, Coleman Rice, Nicholas Sannella, Matt Studdert, Max Tse, and Harry Wolf.
With the talent and dedication of these players, the 2023-24 ice hockey season promises to be a compelling and competitive spectacle. It will be intriguing to observe how these athletes will continue to leave a lasting impression in the sport. Let us keep a keen eye on these emerging stars as they strive for success on the ice.