High school hockey is always a pleasure to watch—the atmosphere, the energy on the ice, and the battling between the players bring warmth to the winter. Following a successful 2023-2024 season and earning the crown of the Inter-Ac Hockey League (IHL) against longtime rival Episcopal Academy, the team looks to continue its improvement this season.
With last year’s success in the back of the team’s mind, the guys look to replicate it this year in their new league. This year, the Fords moved up from the IHL to the ICSHL, a more competitive league where most of the area’s prep and Catholic schools play. So far, things have looked good for the Fords with bright moments that give a good insight into the team’s future, like the first goal of the season coming from Third Former Henry Cagliuso via a pass from Sixth Form captain Ryan Wai.
“I’m trying to lead by example and take what I’ve learned from previous captains and really help push this program forward.”
Ryan Wai ’25
Wai expressed his excitement and determination for the season.
“I think now as a senior I am looking forward to pushing this program to the next level. Obviously, every year comes with big changes, and this year we’re in a new league with tougher competition and more eyes on us,” Wai said. “I’m trying to lead by example and take what I’ve learned from previous captains and really help push this program forward.”
His sentiments capture the ethos of many high school hockey teams, where experienced players take on the responsibility of leadership on and off the ice, striving to leave the program better than they found it. Preparation for success at this level starts well before game day.
Players focus on all aspects of their craft, from skating fundamentals to game-day strategies critical for maintaining an edge in high-level competition.
“We start off with skating and full teamwork. Then we do more position-specific work,” Wai said. “As a forward, we work a lot on passing and creating open space. Then we work on special teams for 15-20 minutes and finish off with hard skating.”
This structured training mirrors the focus of any serious hockey program, emphasizing the balance between skill work, situational play, and physical endurance.
With a combination of young talent, experienced leadership, and an elevated league, the Fords aim to continue proving themselves as a team capable of thriving under tougher competition.
