Will Dalton, Staff Writer
When someone thinks about Newtown High School athletics, they probably think of the football team that has won back-to-back SWC Championships, or the wrestling team who is catching everyone’s eyes as they rise in the state rankings. This winter though, the NHS hockey squad is the team to watch. The team is led by ten seniors, the largest ever for an NHS hockey squad. In total, 28 players make up the team, also an NHS high. “Overall it's one of the strongest teams NHS has had talent wise,” NHS hockey coach Paul Esposito said. “We have a very good chance of winning a conference and state championship this year.” Usually, most players and coaches will say that in anticipation of what is to come, or just because they do not know what else to say. So far, the hockey team has reason to believe that a state championship is within a reach. As of January 21, the Nighthawks’ record is 6-1-2. “We are probably underrated, and not well known. But I think by the end of this season we will be,” NHS sophomore Lawson Fitzsimmons said. This is the kind of mantra that the hockey team is embracing this season. They are not well known, but certainly capable of surprising everyone. “New squad of a lot of talented new kids. Overall, the season looks promising. We’ll definitely be okay this season,” Fitzsimmons added. As for the final result of a promising start to the season; the sky is the limit. In each of the last four years the team has reached the state tournament, but it has failed to get past the second round. Esposito wants to change that. “Every practice, game and meeting is treated like we are in a championship game, because that's what we are ultimately preparing for,” Esposito said. Coach Esposito also sent out a general invite to the entire student body of NHS, stating, “Students who haven't been to a hockey game are missing out on one of the most exciting sports. A great time to catch a game (would be) this year as we have a really good team.” Senior Dan Harrison wanted to make one thing clear for everyone unsure of what the hockey team is all about. Harrison said, “The NHS hockey team is a group of guys committed to playing as a team, not just for ourselves, but for our teammates, our school. We love playing for our fans and for our players and we look to keep that dedication in our players for now and the teams to come.” For those interested, home games are held at the Danbury Ice Arena, where all fans are guaranteed to have a good time. Come with some friends, hit up the huge snack shack, and enjoy some Newtown hockey. Exciting times are ahead.
Photo credit to www.newstimes.com.
