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The Word Is ‘New’ This Season

Harvey hockey will soon drop the puck on a brand-new season, and the emphasis is on new as the Cavaliers will suit up mostly first-time players led by two new coaches.

Under the guidance of former National Hockey League player Colton Orr as head coach and his assistant, one-time Cavs’ leading scorer and all-league player Cian Keohane ’18, the Cavaliers will hit the ice with a roster filled with a great majority of skaters who have yet to don a Cavaliers hockey jersey

In the preseason, Coach Orr got a glimpse of what this year’s players can do on the ice, but only competing against opponents in games that count will give him the chance to see more fully the skill levels of the players and to determine what positions they’ll fill and how many minutes each will play.

With the first game set for Monday, Dec. 16 at home against Greenwich Country Day School. Coach Orr said he’s looking forward to the program’s “fresh start.” He explained, “We’re a young team made up of mostly freshmen and sophomores, so this season will be about gaining experience and developing our young talent.” Harvey, unaffiliated with a league this season, will play games in a full schedule against many FAA schools.

Coach Orr has been impressed with what he’s seen in preseason practices. “Every player is eager to make an impact, and this gives us a unique opportunity to build a cohesive and competitive team culture from the ground up,” explained the coach.

Several players have stood out so far for Coach Orr. He sees junior Connor Hardy as a solid defenseman. “Connor’s a strong leader with good size and the ability to shut down opponents, making him a key presence on the ice,” Coach Orr said. Hardy is one of only three players to be listed among the returnees. The other two are junior James Gittleman and sophomore Jordan Sheppe.

Another strong defenseman is junior Jackson Biel, a newcomer. Coach Orr said, “Jackson should be “a key contributor known for his hockey IQ and ability to play in all situations.” 

The team looks to have three solid forwards – the Cuddy twins, sophomores Dylan and Ryan, and eighth grader Brendan Lonergan. Coach Orr describes the Cuddy brothers as “two talented players who bring energy, versatility, and effort to every shift.” As for Brendan Lonergan, the coach sees “a dynamic player who adds depth and skill.”

Taking on the responsibilities of the team’s goalie is another Lonergan, ninth grader Patrick. The coach has been impressed by what he has seen so far from the Cavs’ goalie. "Patrick's a reliable presence in net who provides confidence and stability for the team,” Coach Orr said.

Rather than consider the strengths of his team’s 2024-25 opponents, Coach Orr chooses to instead keep his evaluations homed in on his squad. “We are going to focus on our game, ensuring we pay attention to details and play a strong defensive style,” Coach Orr said. “Our goal is to make it hard for teams to play in our zone and control the middle of the ice. While we recognize there will be strong competition, our priority is challenging ourselves to improve every day and every game.”

As the start of the season draws closer, Coach Orr sees the 2024-25 campaign marking “a fresh beginning for Harvey Hockey.” He said, “With an almost entirely new roster, we’re focused on developing our identity, building team chemistry, and competing at the highest level.” The coach added, “Our players are hungry to prove themselves, and this will be an exciting journey for everyone involved.”

The season opener against GCDS will start at 4 p.m.