After a disappointing 2016-17 season, varsity hockey comes into the new season with hopes of erasing sour memories with a new look in their coaching staff. Ryan Gannon, former FHN player, stepped up as the new head coach of the varsity team. Gannon, who was the assistant coach in 16-17, knows what it will take for his team to be more successful this season.

“We didn’t have the year we wanted, but it was a good learning experience for the team,” Gannon said. “Any team that works harder has more of a chance of being victorious at the end of the season.”

The team also had a preseason tournament in September, and they went 0-4 in the tournament, losing to FZE, FZS, Parkway South and Ladue. While the Knights were unable to pull out a win during the competition, participating in the tournament changed preparation methods for the team.

“One of the more important things for the team was to get in a preseason tournament,” Hockey President Chris Longmore said. “It helps the players and coaches figure out the strengths and weaknesses of the team and helps them prepare for the season.”

The players share a common goal for the upcoming season: to win big.

“My team goal is for us to try and win the Wickenheiser Cup,” senior Bryce Longmore said.