Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Wishes For A Happy New Year With Hope And Thanks

As the calendar turns from one year to another, it seems unavoidable to take a moment or two for reflection on the world around us. It is impossible to view the politically charged violence in Pakistan and Kenya without feeling horrible for all the innocent people caught in the fray during this time of tumult around the world. Or not to feel an incredible amount of respect and gratitude towards all those risking their lives in trying to bring a sense of calm and peace to our planet. In that regard, my Best Wishes for a Happy New Year come along with a hope of safety for all the service men and women around the world, as well as a prayer for all of those less fortunate, that might be enduring a time of struggle in their lives, and lastly, a great deal of thanks for the health and well being of our own families and friends.

Monday, December 31, 2007

Varsity Boys Ice Hockey Starting to Play Well

Another Portledge winter season Varsity team that is going through a rebuilding process is the Varsity Boys Ice Hockey team. Playing with a very young corps of defensemen and many young forwards, the squad is slowly coming together and beginning to be competitive against their very challenging schedule. Recently, the Panthers defeated the Landon School and lost tough but close contests against The Hill and Bergen Catholic. Although their overall record is only 1 win and 5 losses, the Panthers are confident about their post break schedule, and everyone is looking forward to improved results.

How Did the Boys Do at the PDS Tournament?

After a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to La Salle Academy in the opening semi final, the Panthers bounced back with 5-2 win over the Landon School. Freshman defender Par Condon displayed why Coach Coope is so high on him by having an excellent all around tournament, even though he was playing in only his first Varsity games after an early season shoulder injury. 8th grade forward Brendan McGovern was also impressive as he showed no fear in challenging for loose pucks against older and more experienced players. Senior forward Zach Lombardi was selected to the All Tournament team. This honor recognizes fine sportsmanship, as well as excellent overall play. So congratulations to Zach! He is a great leader and an incredible role model for the younger players. It was fantastic to see the Portledge School represented at the PDS Tournament once again, and we in the athletic department look forward to many more years of great hockey at this annual event.

How Did the Team Do in Its First Home Game Down at Beaver Dam?

On a cold night following an exciting Varsity Girls game, the Varsity Boys took the ice for the first time this season down at Beaver Dam. The Portledge games have become quite an event down at the "Dam". On this night the crowd was made up of supporters from the school community and many club members enjoying the opportunity to see some great prep school ice hockey. The opponent was the Varsity from Bergen Catholic, one of the top teams in the state of New Jersey. From the beginning the BC team displayed some excellent skill and speed, as they dominated the early play and kept Portledge pinned down in their own zone. Little by little though, the Panthers found a way break the puck out and establish an offensive presence of their own. The best Portledge line was made up of Freshman Stephan DiBartolomeo centering for Junior Renny Kraft and Senior Austin Prey. This trio worked very hard throughout the game and created many quality scoring chances for themselves. Another player returning from an early season injury was Sophomore defensemen David Wilson. Wilson is a player with tremendous potential. He is a strong skater with a long reach and a great shot from the point. Having Wilson back in the line up on a regular basis should make quite a difference in the Portledge team. Although the final score on this night was 3-1 for BC , everyone who was down at the game was treated to some excellent hockey. When you look at all the young talent on this team it is easy to see how they steadily improve as this season and Portledge hockey goes on. The Panthers next take the ice on Monday, Jan 7th @ Home v. Fairlawn Prep, another strong team from Jersey coached by Portledge alum Mike Goodrich '88.