Bard Raptors community hockey team playoff bound

After losing two of its first five games, the Bard Raptors hockey team went 12-1 to finish the regular season in first place in their inaugural season in the Saugerties Community Hockey League.

The Raptors’ final record was 15-3 as they edged out the Loggerheads by one point and will be seeded first in the four-team playoffs that start this Sunday at 7pm in Saugerties.

The Raptors excelled under pressure, winning all five of their overtime games, three of them in shootouts, behind the inspired goaltending of Bard’s Jim Chambers. Defenseman Ryan Ahl led the Raptors in goals and total points, followed closely by Bard’s Emmett Brennan and player/coach Dave LaSpina.

The Raptors, known for their tight teamwork and emotional play, lead the league in both total goals scored and penalty minutes.

Inspirational play was also provided by the Professor, Jonathan Becker, Bard students Dave Gookin, Adam LaMotte, Gabe Adels, Tuck Gaisford, Jack Bott and Adriana Johnson, and Tivoli Fire Dept’s Kyle Jennings.

The public is encouraged to come to Saugerties support the Raptors as they battle for the League Championship.

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