FHC is days away from the return of the most entertaining team at FHC; the boys hockey team. This season will bring new challenges to the team because of the changes they have undergone, but the boys are still anxious for the season to start.

Over the offseason, the team made the jump from division three to division one, a massive change to the boys’ season. Although this may seem like a tough move, the boys are excited because it gives them new opportunities. They look forward to playing teams such as Mona Shores and Rockford which they faced last year but unfortunately lost. Although, this is a new season. Not only will the team get to face off against Rockford and Mona Shores in the regular season, but in the regional playoff as well.

“We are very excited to play Mona Shores. Hopefully, we will get the opportunity to beat Mona in the regional finals and make a deep playoff run.” sophomore Eli Lipke said.

Before the boys can focus on the playoffs, they must focus on the regular season ahead of them and what factors will bring them success. Ten players have been added to the squad this year which may switch up the chemistry of the team from last year, but junior Owen Barber isn’t worried. He believes that they will be the key to success.

“We have a bunch of new guys on the team. We also have a lot of skills and talent. To succeed, I think we need to mix everyone together and find out what works.” said Owen.

So far, the team has gotten to a good start. Although it was a scrimmage, the boys were able to tie the previous division two state champs of Hartland. This game shows that the team is ready to face the tough competition of division one from teams such as Rockford and Mona Shores. They feel very confident going into the regular season and are eager to take on what the new division gives them.

“I definitely think division three was harder and I think we are set up well to succeed in division one,” Eli explained. “I’m really excited to jump in and play with the big schools rather than the smaller prep academies of division three.”

With all this excitement around the season, the team has one goal: win regionals. After last season’s tough loss to Mattawan in the regional semi-final, the boys have had their minds set on a regional championship. To do this, 3rd-year head coach Bill McSween has pushed and continues to push the team to get to a level where they can accomplish their goal.

“The plan for us is the get better each day by being the hardest-working team in the state.” said coach McSween

It is finally hockey season again and after a long offseason, we will finally get to see the boys back out on the ice on Friday when they will take on Bay City at Patterson Ice Center at 6:30 p.m. and Forest Hills Northern/Eastern on Saturday at 5:30 p.m.