When you think of LM sports, which teams come to mind? First, you’d probably go to our basketball team, considering its outstanding legacy. Maybe you think of our football team, whose games are always packed and electrifying. You might even picture our soccer team, coming off an amazing state finals run. However, one team almost no one would think of is LM ice hockey, who flew under the radar all of last season. This is understandable, considering just two years ago the Aces went 3-14 in the D2 league, below the Central League. This past season, however, the Aces managed to turn everything around. Exceeding all expectations, the Aces moved up from D2 to the Central League and won twelve of their seventeen games, encapsulated by a stunning 10-1 victory over Conestoga and upsetting first seeded Haverford 4-0 in the playoffs. After advancing all the way to the Central League Championship, the Aces barely lost to Penncrest by a score of 7-5. The team’s performance over the course of the season allowed them to qualify for the Flyer’s Cup, a prestige only bestowed upon those such as former state champions, Pennsbury. Furthermore, former player Dylan Peterson ’23 qualified for First-Team All-Central and Jesse Ufgberg ’23 even topped the charts in penalty minutes. All jokes aside, the performance last season seems like nothing short of a miracle. How does a team go from 3-14 in a dumpster league to the Central League runner-up?

To answer this you’d need to look at newly hired Coach Harkins. The hockey team always had talent, but Harkins was the one who truly tapped into their potential. One way he did this was by strategically keeping a short varsity roster, only admitting two freshmen and even cutting former varsity players. In past years, the team was held back by less qualified players. Still, cutting the roster down was a bold move, especially for a first year coach. Harkins also made a difference by making sure players actually showed up. He required attendance at both practices and games.

At the end of the day, the Aces’ success came down to the players, not the coach. Everyone fought their hardest every single game for one another. This year, the Aces are coming for the championship with fire in their hearts. They haven’t forgotten last year’s devastating defeat, so fans should once again expect great things this season. Come out this October to see high-octane games full of physicality. Whether it’s Remy Kagan ’24 making enormous defensive hits, Toby Myers ’25 taking brutal slapshots, or Will Zeger ’25 making stunning saves, every game will be full of entertainment for fans of any sport. In particular, the rivalry game against Harriton before Thanksgiving is always a thrilling showdown, so make sure to show up and show out.