Perrysburg moves up to the Red Division this year and is very eager to show they belong.  The Yellow Jackets lost only twice in league play last season (11-2-0) with both of their setbacks coming to White Division champ Anthony Wayne.

Consider these signs of growth:

• 17 returning players.
• The establishment of a JV program for the first time
• A one-goal loss to Findlay in their Red Division debut November 22 after dropping a 10-0 decision to the Trojans last year
• The addition of a former Miami University captain to the coaching staff

Fourth-year head coach Kevin Fisher, the 2018-19 NHC White Division Coach of the Year, has been the architect of the Perrysburg’s emergence.

“Depth and experience,” Fisher said when asked what the Yellow Jackets’ strengths were as they moved up into the top division of play.  “and the momentum based on the trajectory that this program has followed the past three years.”

Fisher is pleased with the strength of his blue line in particular – a group that will be under the watchful eye of former Miami captain Pat Hanley.  Elliott expects Hanley to coach up an already solid group.

“Our five-man unit on defense will match-up against anyone in the conference,” Fisher said.  “They’re fast, skilled, smart and play in all three zones.”

The Yellow Jackets’ top two lines will anchored by centermen Tay Schneider and Patrick Hanley, players Fisher has identified as “go-to leaders” for the team.

Schneider, a junior, and senior Caden Togrul will serve as captains.

Fisher has been also been impressed with a pair of freshmen early on.

“Cody Schneider has looked impressive throughout the summer and preseason as has goaltender Sam Yonker.”

Getting a JV team up and running for the first time in school history will provide a further pipeline of talent within the system and is a testament to the strength and depth of hockey in Perrysburg.

“That’s a true indicator of the growth of this program and the passion for hockey in this town!”

As Fisher scans the 2019-20 schedule there are a few dates that jump out.  Transferring their rivalry with Anthony Wayne to the Red Division is something Elliott is looking forward to, as well as going up against Matt Bollinger and the Titans of St. John’s.

“Matt was a captain of the Southview teams I was the assistant coach for some 20 years ago,” Fisher said.  “It’s always fun to go head-to-head with him.”

 

--- Scott Harrington for Ohio Hockey Digest