BHS Hockey Team Seeks Repeat Performance

The Bedford boys ice hockey team was challenged throughout the 2011-'12 Division II season and passed nearly every test.

After finishing first during the regular season, the final exam came in the state championship game where the Bulldogs earned an "A+" and captured their first crown.

This year, the goal is no less than to repeat as the best, said Marty Myers, who enters his third season as BHS head coach, along with assistants Luc Vaillancourt, Donald Palmer and Ray Bernard.

"Expectations this season is play consistent team concept hockey," said Myers. "We want to make the playoffs and play our best hockey in the playoffs."

Junior goalie Stevan Tempesta, who backstopped the locals to last year's title, is back between the pipes.

The Bulldogs are captains this season by defenseman Cullen Willey and forwards Kurt Mitchel and Chris Ohara, who lead a potent top line that includes Chris Viola.

Myers said the trio possesses great chemistry and are fun to watch.

Returning with Willey to the blue line are Mike Dee and Jeff Campbell, while Brett Silva, John Vanderminden and Pat Gagliardia join the defensive effort.

New players to the team Nate Boyd, Neil Soucy and Harry Voloshin is an upcoming line that move the puck well.

The Bulldogs are off to a hot start having won their first three games including a 7-0 thumping of Winnacunnet Wednesday night.

Myers encourages readers to come watch one of his team's games.

"We are a fun team to watch," he said.

Bedford hosts Goffstown at 1 p.m. this Saturday, Dec. 22 at St. Anselm College.