BY JULIE POWELL
Sports Editor

One of the hockey team’s biggest goals this year is to set up a big change for next year: moving out of the lowest-level Open division.

After dropping out of the AAA division two years ago, the team has been striving to make it out of its Open division standing, which pits the team against schools with smaller, less-established hockey programs.  

The players feel confident that they could perform well in the higher division, sophomore Max Milan, 15, said.

“We definitely work harder because we feel like we could make our way out of Open division,” Milan said. “Last season we were mostly freshman and sophomores, so we have more experience since we are older.”

The team’s strong start this season could indicate that their goal is within reach.

Baldwin started the year with a 5-1 record.

Being in Open division does add some challenges.

“In Open division, we play a lot of different styles, so it’s harder to stay consistent,” Zach Winkowski, 15, said. Winkowski is one of three freshman varsity players on the team. Four other freshmen regularly join the varsity for some games.

“We have a really short bench, so it’s good to have those extra bodies,” Winkowski said.

A new coaching staff, led by Jim Brown, shares the goal of getting the team out of Open division and playing with more advanced teams.

“They are definitely more about winning and getting us out of Open division,” Winkowski said of coaches.

The team also has the advantage of having players like Milan and junior Brian Dee, 17, who have the experience of being on travel teams. Dee is in the process of being recruited for another travel team.

“They really bring that game skill with them to our team,” Winkowski said.

Dee further boosts the team through his chemistry with his brother, sophomore Kenny Dee, 16.

            “They have really great chemistry,” Winkowski said. “Kenny always knows where Brian will be and is a great shut-down defenseman. He can stop just about anyone, while Brian can score at any time.”

The two brothers have been playing together since they first started hockey 13 years ago.

“Having my brother on the team can be frustrating, but it’s also nice,” Kenny Dee said. “We are able to push each other.”

 Aside from moving into a higher division, the team also has bigger hopes for the seasons to come.

“I do want to get out of Open division and eventually have our team be able to compete for the Penguin Cup,” Winkowski said.