MIDDLE VILLAGE – The Middle Village Players Roller Hockey League officially opened its eighth season of action this weekend, delivering a full day of competitive hockey, dramatic comebacks, first career goals, outstanding goaltending and plenty of fun for players and families.
The season opened with a matchup between the Squirrels and defending champion Hitmen. The Squirrels, coached by Rich Ehrhart and Scott Byhoff, came away with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the defending champions.
Mike Mendes provided all of the Squirrels’ offense, scoring both goals on assists from his brother, Daniel. The Hitmen’s lone goal came from Conor McPhilips, who scored on a one-timer following a pass from Jack Pogozelski.
The game also featured an impressive performance in goal. Juan Jose Munoz and Paul Pogozelski combined to allow just three goals on more than 40 shots, setting the tone for what promises to be another exciting season. The Hitmen are coached by Eugene McPhillips and Stephen Mullarkey of Liberty Park Housing.
The second game of the day produced an even more dramatic finish, as the Stingers rallied from a 5-1 deficit to defeat the Jets, 8-6. The Jets jumped out to an early advantage behind goals from Jax Anderson and Charlie Troche, building a four-goal lead heading into the third period. The Stingers, coached by Tom Schmidt Sr. and Tom Schmidt Jr., refused to give up.
Led by captain Anthony Wilkos and his brother, Benji, the Stingers mounted a furious third-period comeback to complete the 8-6 victory. Dean Schmidt added to the Stingers’ offensive attack, while Jack Mullarkey and Dominick Jagla each recorded the first career goals of their hockey careers.
For the Jets, Robert Rogowski provided an energetic performance and scored a goal, while Jace Alejandro Welch also found the back of the net. Leah Burges and Jojo Anderson played important roles in creating scoring opportunities and finding open teammates.
The Jets, coached by John Cannetti, Mathew Burges and Charlie Troche, used the comeback as an important learning experience for their team. Following the game, the coaching staff spoke with the players about the importance of staying focused when holding a large lead and never becoming overly confident during a game.
Daniel Mendes and Michael Mendes shared the goaltending duties for the Jets and Stingers, helping close out an action-packed opening day.
The Tigers, coached by Mathew Restrepo and Yair Tapia, were the only team yet to take the rink and will make their season debut on Saturday, September 19, at 1:30pm against the Hitmen. The day’s second matchup will feature the Stingers taking on the Squirrels at 3pm, with another full day of league action set for Sunday.
Community support adds to Opening Day
The opening-day festivities extended beyond the hockey rink. League sponsor Windoorful Imports Inc. provided ice cream and Italian ices for players and families, which were a big hit with the children. With so many treats available, parents could only hope that all the post-game energy would eventually turn into a good night’s sleep!
MVP Roller Hockey thanked Windoorful Imports Inc. and their other sponsors for their continued support of the league. The organization encourages members of the community to support the local businesses that uplift youth roller hockey and community programs.
The eighth season of the Middle Village Players Roller Hockey League will continue through November, and limited spots are still available for children interested in joining.
Families interested in learning more about the league or registering their child are encouraged to visit MVPRoller.com, follow the league on Instagram @mvprollerhockey, and check Middle Village Roller Hockey on Facebook for schedules, registration information and updates throughout the season.
