The Los Alamos High School varsity ice hockey team made history on February 23 when they won the New Mexico state championship with a nail-biting 2-1 victory over the Santa Fe Blue Jackets. The game was held at the Genoveva Chavez Community Center Ice Arena and came after the Hilltoppers' weekend of total domination of the tournament.
Los Alamos began the season with a 2-2 tie against El Paso, and then cruised through the following two games and took consecutive 5-1 wins against NMICE and Santa Fe. They continued their momentum in the finals, where they fought tooth and nail to win the state championship.
Senior captain Gavin Mitchell got things started early on with the initial goal, thanks to an assist from senior teammate Tyron Pietryga. Sophomore defenseman Angus Smith, though, sealed the deal in the final period with an incredible game-winner assisted by Mitchell.
“We had an awesome group of players and coaches this year, making the season truly unforgettable,” Mitchell stated to the Los Alamos Reporter. “There is no better feeling than coming together and finishing as State Champions, especially for us seniors.”
Los Alamos relied on its stout defense to beat Santa Fe, thanks to sophomore goalie Oliver Henzl's 14 key saves. The heartbreaking overtime defeat in the championship game of their last season had everyone hungry to celebrate a win.
“This championship was probably the biggest game of my life,” Henzl explained. “The loss last year was tough, so to win it back meant everything. The game was so close so everything had to count. It was a matter of mentality, they wanted it as badly as we did.”
Junior defenseman Aiden Alley credited the win to the defense and leadership of the team. "Our defense did a great job holding the line. We had great leadership from our captains."
Head Coach Lyle Grove could not have been more proud of the team. "They showed resilience and stayed composed under pressure.”
With a balance of experienced leaders and fresh talent, the Hilltoppers proved they were ready for the big moments. Not only did they win a title, but they regained a position back at the top.
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