The Upper Montgomery Lightning JV squad kicks off the season on Monday night versus the BCC Barons. Game time is 8:00 pm at the Laurel Ice Gardens.
The Lightning will be backstopped in net by versatile and athletic goalie Landon Bernard. Having played a full JV season last year as a 9th grader, Landon brings with him that experience to the net this year. He has been working hard over the summer to improve some of the more technical aspect of playing in net. Landon played very well in a varsity start last week versus the Rockville Rams eventually falling 3-2. Upper Montgomery has high expectations for Landon to play at a very high level.
On defense, Upper Montgomery has a significant number of unanswered questions. There are only two true defenders on the roster, smooth skating and nimble Cole Howerton who will be looking to move the puck fast and lead defensive zone breakouts, and stay at home defender Patrick Sell, who has improved greatly since the 2021 spring season. Expect several varsity defenders with JV eligibility to be dressed on Monday evening to help the young JV roster.
The Lightning JV forward ranks will be a mixture of skill and size. Expect fast skating forward Josh Nadler to create offensive chances when on the ice. Henry Honacki will see significant time at center. Winger Adam Levine will create havoc in front of the net, looking for deflections and to pounce on and deposit loose pucks. Versatile forward/defender Lucas Eyman will provide experience to the young lineup. Hulking forward James Hyman will use his size to disrupt in the offensive zone and to take away chances while defending. Josh Miller returns to the team after a one-year absence and will battle along the boards for loose pucks and will play positionally sound defense. Newcomer TJ Gottesman will add a spark to the lineup as he gets involved and mixes it up all over the ice. These young forwards will be assisted by the varsity forwards called upon to provide additional depth.
The team is looking to get off to a fast start to the season as it begins an early push for playoff positioning.