This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.
04/16/2014 12:00 AMNorth Branford ice hockey had graduated two of its best players from last season's squad that reached the Division II semifinals in center Dylan Podbielski and goalie Kyle Saroka. But the key losses didn't hamper the T-Birds too much this season as Ralph Shaw's group won 10 games and again made the playoffs.
"We struggled offensively at times, but overall, I was pleased with the year," Shaw said. "I was happy with 10-10 and reaching the postseason with a relatively young team with some inexperienced guys that played."
Senior captains Nick Johnson and Brendan Appi anchored the defense. Appi was North Branford's defensive defenseman while Johnson was more apt to jump into the offense to generate scoring. It's a pair that Shaw is sad to see leave.
"We lose Nick Johnson and Brendan Appi, who anchored our blue line this year, and you can't replace guys that have been around for four years that quickly," he said. "We have guys that stepped up this year and played tremendous for us on defense so we're going to pass the torch. We'll see what happens."
Appi earned the Desire and Dedication Award from Shaw for his leadership and contribution on the ice.
"For four years, he did everything we asked him to do," Shaw said. "He was a solid guy in the locker room and he was a clear choice for a captain. He's just a solid individual and a great guy."
Shaw received contributions from just about everyone in the attacking zone with Alec Martone, Adam Burkle, Dominic Raccio, and Jordan Glenn leading the charge. Martone was named MVP.
In the states loss to North Haven, Martone left in the second period with a partial tear of a ligament in his shoulder. North Branford's chances were few and far between the rest of the game as the Indians scored four third period goals to win 6-2.
"I thought in the North Haven game we showed tremendous poise and courage," Shaw said. "People look at the score and see 6-2, but going into the third with seven or eight minutes left in the game, it was tied 2-2. The guys played their hearts out and that leads to the potential that they can compete at that level."
The team's third senior, Jared Neubig, earned the Hobey Baker Sportsmanship Award. Shaw felt he stepped up this season as a second line hustler.
In goal, after losing keeper Saroka to graduation, freshman Will McEwen took over and was named the DII Rookie of the Year.
"It's a nice honor. He came in as a freshman and played very well," Shaw said.
McEwen and most of the T-Birds' offense will be back next season, although Shaw will have to fill in holes on defense surrounding Tanner Opie and Matt Chamberlain. With as much as he has returning, Shaw is excited for next season.
"Overall, I'm excited about what we have coming back next year and it should be a good look for the T-Birds," Shaw said