The men’s hockey team has received its National Championship rings feeling “very special” to have accomplished such a “high honor,” according to last year’s rookie standout player.
Now a sophomore, Kyle Thomas, a 20 year old communications major from Waltham, Mass. is thrilled to receive a ring, but “determined to repeat the same success this year as well.”
“We’re all looking to do the same thing this year, we are all on the same page and ready to win it all, yet again,” Thomas said. “Our team is ready to build on the accomplishments from last year and hopefully win another ring this year.”
He adds, “Bringing back a national title to Norwich two years in a row would be quite an accomplishment for our squad.”
Shawn Baker, a 23-year-old criminal justice major from Mont- Laurier, Quebec, states, “It’s awesome to be a national champion. It’s such a great feeling, but we need to stay focused and do it again.”
“The team is working hard and training hard in the off-season. Staying focused with a humble attitude is very important for this year’s team,” Baker said.
Senior Greg Eskedjian, 23, sports medicine major from Barrie, Ontario, said, “Getting a ring puts a final stamp on everything we worked for last year.”
“Being a national champion is something I will never forget, but now that we’re back at school, last year is over and we have to start from scratch this year,” Eskedjian said.
The Cadets say they would like to win another NCAA Division III national championship.
“The team has to stay committed to do what it takes to achieve what we accomplished last season.” Eskedkian said.
The Cadets’ first game is Nov. 19, against the University of New England at home. Faceoff in Kreitzberg will be at 7 p.m.