Hockey Preview
Last season, the Moeller Crusaders’ Hockey team finished with a 12–21 overall record and a 2–6 in conference play. Despite the tough results, the team battled hard throughout the year and made a decent run in the playoffs by reaching the third round before being knocked out by New Albany. Earlier in the postseason, they fell to Upper Arlington in the first round of the Blue Jackets Cup. The Crusaders showed early promise, starting the season 8–8 before hitting a rough stretch of games to finish the year 2–12. Senior defender Diegan Lyons said the team has used last season as motivation to come back stronger. “We have been putting in a lot of work in the weight room, on the hills, and in the rink to prepare ourselves for this year,” Lyons said. “I am confident in the upcoming season.” With that determination, the Crusaders enter this season ready to rewrite their story. The Crusaders return to a strong and experienced core, with only six seniors graduating from last year’s 19-player roster.
Max Gerber headlines the offense after scoring 9 goals last season, the 13th most in the league and the most of any returning Moeller player. When Lyons was asked about Max, he spoke highly of his work ethic and describing him as a gritty competitor. “Max is an old-fashioned hockey player,” Lyons said. “No fancy moves or dangles, just skating as hard as he can and getting pucks to the net.” Alongside Gerber, Christian Rivard returns as one of the Crusaders’ best forwards. Rivard brings a different kind of flair to the attack with his creativity and dangerous shot. “Christian is the opposite of Max,” Lyons said. “He’s got an insane shot and shifty legs. He’s been a pain to defend in practice and is going to be a threat for whoever we play.” In goal, Josh Sturgeon anchors the defense after posting an 87.5% save percentage last season. Lyons believes Sturgeon is ready for a breakout year. “Josh has been putting in the work in the offseason to make himself stronger, mentally and physically,” Lyons said. “All his work is going to pay off, and I think he’s going to be the best goalie in the conference.” Rounding out the players to watch is Diegan Lyons, a returning leader known for his hustle on defense. Together, these key players look to lead their teammates to ensure they have a better season than last year.
This season’s schedule features several important matchups that will test Moeller early on in the season. The November 15th game against New Albany will be the Crusaders’ second game of the season and their first conference matchup. After being eliminated by New Albany in the state tournament for the past two years, Moeller is hungry for payback. “I’m looking forward to our games against New Albany this year, they have knocked us out of the playoffs the past two years and have little respect for us. I can’t wait for our get back.” The November 21st game against Upper Arlington also brings added motivation, giving the Crusaders a chance to get revenge from last season’s Blue Jackets Cup loss. Also, on January 10th, Moeller faces off against longtime rival St. Xavier. This game always brings out the best in both teams. Even though St. X isn’t in the Crusaders’ conference for hockey, the rivalry runs deep between the two schools, and this game remains one of the biggest of the season for players and fans alike.
Much of Moeller’s confidence comes from their disciplined preparation, both on and off the ice. Lyons credits the coaching staff for building a culture of hard work. “Coach Holum has created a practice plan throughout the week that’s helping us sharpen skills that will translate into games,” Lyons said. “He’s taught us to always go the extra step in practice and stressed the importance of doing the little things.” The team has also focused on building strength and endurance through a revamped training program led by Coach Grey, who has implemented hockey-specific workouts designed to improve power and speed. “Coach Grey is getting us stronger with hockey specific workouts that already have made us faster.” Lyons said. This strength and speed training has helped the team come together to focus on their collective growth and making sure their get the results they want for the upcoming season.
The team enters this season with a strong lineup filled with experience at every position. With key players returning like Max Gerber, Christian Rivard, Diegan Lyons, and Dylan Sturgeon, the team has the right mix of leadership and youthful energy to make a serious run. The Crusaders aim to translate that hard work from the offseason into actual results this upcoming season. With many key games and redemption opportunities ahead, Moeller hockey looks for a season worth remembering and hopefully a deep run in the postseason.