Last season the Mentor Cardinals went an impressive 30-5-2, won the Baron Cup, and came within a goal of upsetting Gilmour Academy in the semifinal of the Kent District Tournament.

This year’s squad returns a plethora of experience from last season’s powerful team. At forward, there are four returning seniors, each of whom who tallied at least 50 points last season (Kyle Backston (32-44-76), Andrew McBride (19-46-65), Luke Jeffery (24-32-56) and Mitch Elliott (23-27-50).

In addition, defenseman, Cameron Mocny, who contributed 38 points of his own last season, returns as does the goaltending tandem of senior Alex Toth (17-4-1, 5 SO, 1.77 GAA, .934 Save %) and junior Madelyn Adamic (13-1-1, 3 SO, 2.00 GAA, .910 Save %).  The two combined for a 1.86 GAA and allowed 68 just goals in 37 games.

Coach Paul McKito believes that some early season tournaments and Red Division battles – especially against Rocky River – will prepare his club to make another deep run in both the Baron Cup as well as the OHSAA tournament.

This year’s team will be loaded with several returning vets and will be further bolstered by a few transfers from Lake Catholic’s dormant program.  

--- Chris Slocumb for Ohio Hockey Digest