Speaking
of Sports 

by
Lance J. Lilla

 
Finely Tuned
Hockey 'Cats

March 6, 2011

Yesterday, the Novi Varsity Hockey team faced-off against Howell, a huge competitor that they have already lost to twice. Because of the previous losses, Novi fans were rather unconfident going into the game. The players were not.

According to Curtis Herzog, a junior on the team, the 'Cats had a new forecheck system for the offensive zone. They were less aggressive and forced Howell to give the puck up. Also, in the first two games Howell managed to capitalize on multiple breakaway goals so the 'Cats knew to keep an eye out for that.

Herzog believes that the combination of this new strategy and the outstanding performance put forth by senior goalie, Michael Pesendorfer is what lead the 'Cats to shutting out Howell with a final score of 3-0 for the regional title.

The past two years the 'Cats have had trouble after the regional finals, such as loosing their composure and taking unnecessary penalties. I asked Herzog how things would be different this time around. He explained that over time they have become more disciplined and come together as a team and have worked at maintaining their composure under pressure.

Hopefully the 'Cats have fine-tuned things and are ready to compete against Clarkston, Wednesday night at 6:00 p.m. in Flint.

(c) 2011 Novi Information Network
 www.novi.org

Lance J. Lilla is a Junior at Novi High School and is a member of the school's varsity football and track teams. Lance brings you in-depth coverage you won't find elsewhere, and appears here every other week.

This column is shared by Alex Prasad, Lance J. Lilla and Bernie Fratto on alternating weeks.