Following back-to-back Section 1 titles, the John Jay ice hockey team has continued its success through the beginning of the 2019-20 season. After eight games, John Jay’s record is 6-1-1, with its sole loss to Canisius, a perennial Buffalo powerhouse. 

Through these eight games, John Jay has scored 5 goals per game, while only allowing an average of 1.25 goals per game. This early spark is due to the experienced coaching staff, solid top-four defenders, and explosive first line. Head coach Alex Smith has been behind the bench for over 30 years. During his 14-year tenure at John Jay, Coach Smith has won three section titles (2013, 2018, and 2019) and advanced to the NY State Championships in those three years (NY State Finalists in 2013 and NY State Semifinalists in 2018 and 2019). Coach Smith has taught his players to play for something bigger than themselves: their teammates and school. The trust they have endowed upon each other at the outset of the season has driven their early success.

In addition, last year’s top four defensemen (Charlie Oestreicher, Justin DeLucia, Tyler Petschek, and Ethan Jackson) all returned this season. They continue to be physical presences in front of the net, excellent 1-on-1 defenders, and significant contributors to the offense.

A third major factor in John Jay’s early success is the first line of forwards. Led by senior Jack Browne, this line is almost unstoppable. Through eight games, they have recorded 25 goals and have the top two point leaders on the team (Jack Browne with 18 points and Tyler Wishart with 16 points). They have also proven to be a strong penalty-killing unit. This line has flourished through hard work, and it continues to serve as the backbone of the offense. With a great coaching staff, strong defense, and high powered first line, expectations are high for this team.