Built on a blend of younger talent and seasoned leadership, the Windsor Lancer men's hockey team is gearing up for what promises to be a strong 2024-25 OUA season.
 
The Lancers will drop the puck on their campaign with a doubleheader against the Guelph Gryphons. They start on the road Thursday, October 3rd  at 7:30pm. Then, the team will return for their home opener to Capri Pizzeria Recreation Complex (CRPC) on Saturday, October 4th at 7:30pm.
 
Consistency remains key for the blue and gold. The teams' goals align with past seasons: winning Queen's Cup and making a deep run in the National Tournament. "This has been a great experience to go through a challenging pre-season with such an amazing group of young men," said Head Coach Kevin Hamlin. "Our systems are a process, and everyone is committed to working hard to make this a strength of our team. It is an absolute pleasure working with this team."
 
With 12 freshmen entering the lineup, the Lancers will field the youngest roster in the OUA. That said, the team has been working behind the scenes to focus on building trust and cohesion. "I am confident this team will deal with any usual adversity that teams deal with in a positive manner," expressed Hamlin.
 
"The challenges will be our youth and competing in a league that prides itself on its parity.  We will be ready to play every night, and I am confident that our guys will make our school proud."
 
A strong core of veterans returns to anchor the team this season. Seniors Will Ennis and Matt McNamara, as well as third-year assistant captain Stef Dobrich will provide valuable leadership. Goaltender Nathan Torchia, the 2022-23 U SPORTS Goalie of the Year, will once again be a force between the pipes. Offensive threats Brady Hinz, Aaron Shaw, and Keegan McMullen are also expected to make an immediate impact.
 
If there's a theme for the Lancers this season, it's "trust the process." With the 2013-14 Lancer Queen's Cup being inducted into the University of Windsor Sport Hall of Fame in November, there is plenty of inspiration for the current squad to draw from as they look to build their own legacy.
 
The Lancer family is encouraged to support the team at the CRPC, where the blue-and-gold atmosphere promises to be electric. "It's affordable and truly a great entertainment opportunity for all Lancer Fans," Hamlin added.
 
Tickets are available for purchase in advance at goLancers.ca/tickets or can be bought at the admission gate at the CRPC on game day. The Lancer family can also catch all the action on game days streaming on OUA.tv.