Al Taurence
In the high school hockey ranks, Riverview has been playing exceptionally. The Pirates (20-8-1) reached the Division 3 semifinals Friday before losing 7-0 to Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook-Kingswood (27-2-1) at Compuware Arena in Plymouth.
The game was close before the Cranes began to take control with 5 minutes left in the first period. The Cranes led 6-0 after two periods.
The Pirates defeated Chelsea 5-3 in a state quarterfinal
game Wednesday at Allen Park Ice Arena to advance to the semifinals Friday.
Riverview goalie Zach Woolcott gave up two first period goals, but then shut down the Bulldogs the rest of the way.
Meanwhile, the Pirates tied things up in the second period on goals from seniors Brian Bachnak and Jay Helstowski.
Kyle Agius scored on a deflection with 11:51 left in the third period before Chelsea tied it up 35 seconds later on a breakaway.
Chris Hass deflected a Helstowski shot to give the Pirates the lead for good. Agius scored his second goal of the game on an empty net with 28 seconds left to ice the game.
Riverview advanced to the quarters with wins over Grosse Ile (7-2) and Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central (4-3) in regional action.
Amateur hockey in full swing at area ice rinks.
Plenty of kids from the mites, high school and beyond
have been busy playing organized amateur hockey in the many indoor rinks located throughout the greater Dearborn/Downriver vicinity.
The winter regular season house and travel teams are nearing an end
while playoff action applies to some. I’m amazed at the popularity and amount of hockey that takes place, especially within the confines of the Dearborn Hockey Association.
On Thursday, the DHA is putting on its 2013 Hockey Appreciation & Recognition Banquet. This event is being held at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center, starting at 6 p.m. Words from various league coaches and DHA board members are part of the event.
Passion for hockey is something many players never outgrow. Depending
on the location, adult hockey teams are playing in leagues all over the surburban area. Over 30, Over 40, Over 50, Over 60 and, yes, even Over 70 leagues have formed teams that see action on the ice.
Photos by Daniel Gretzner
Seniors Brian Bachnak (left), Jay Helstowski, Tim Lyons and Kyle Agius have led the Riverview hockey team to a 20-7-1 record this year and a spot in the Division 3 semifinals.