The Albany Academy hockey team opened the 2010-2011 season against the Hoosac School, and took care of business, winning 2-1. However the game was not even that close, as the Cadets had far more shots on goal than Hoosac, yet were only able to score twice.

After their win against Hoosac, the Cadets set their sights on Berkshire School. Berkshire is an annual New England Prep-School contender, and this year is no different as they have a number of very talented players. In years past Berkshire was just too good, and the Cadets simply could not match Berkshire’s fast tempo. However this year was very different.

In the first period both teams were evenly matched, but the Cadets were unable to take advantage of their multiple chances, while Berkshire was able to score, and led Academy 1-0 at the period’s close. The Cadets came out firing in the second period, scoring 3 goals in the first three minutes. The Cadets ended up scoring a total of five goals in the period, two by senior Dave Limoges. Senior captains Conor Riley and Albee Daley also found the stat sheet. Berkshire, though, nearly matched the Cadets’ offensive outburst, scoring four goals of their own and the second period ended tied at five goals apiece.

The third period was much more controlled, as neither team wanted to make a mistake and fall behind. Berkshire had a number of chances but was unable to put the puck past goalie Ben Halford. Unfortunately, the Cadets were also unable to score and the game headed into overtime. The Cadets had their chances early on in the extra session, but could not get a bounce and the game continued. Midway through the period, a Berkshire shot deflected off a leg and into the net for the game-winning goal.

Although the 6-5 loss was disappointing for the Cadets and the boisterous student section, the team’s performance was encouraging. The Cadets played well against a Prep-School League powerhouse, and proved that they are a team on the rise. If the Cadets can continue to play this well, good things are sure to come.