The Cranston-Woonsocket boys hockey co-op skated out to an 8-3 win against Coventry/Johnston last week in its opener, setting the tone for what should be a big season for the Falcons.
Cranston-Woonsocket graduated just three players from last year’s roster, with many of the returning players receiving significant ice time the past two winters. The Falcons reached the Division II postseason the past two years with this group.
Grant Bailey led the way last week by scoring three goals, while Devin DeAngelis, Nicholas DiRaimo, Adam Marriott, Jacob Case and Alex Barriera also scored. Jack Fontaine and Jacob Bovay each recorded two assists in the win as well.
With 11 upperclassmen leading the charge as well as a seasoned group of underclassmen, Cranston-Woonsocket coach Matt Brannon believes that the sky is the limit as the Falcons hunt for a Division II title this season.
“It’s been a testament to the kids that have come back. The last couple of years have been a struggle for us to get to the playoffs. Our numbers were low but they’re back up, we have a full JV program again. These kids that have been with us through the tough times, it’s rewarding to see them come back. We have a good senior group, and the (underclassmen) were thrown into the fire last year. As freshmen and sophomores they saw a ton of ice time so we’re hoping we’ll develop into one of the better teams in the state,” Brannon said.
Two big losses for the Falcons were four-year starter Justin Drohen as well as starting goalie Jaedon Case.
“It’ll be hard to replace him and his leadership on the ice. Tommy Slater will look to pick up the slack and we moved Brady Scanlon from defense to forward. Hopefully those two can pick up the slack and can make a productive first line,” said Brannon of filling Drohen’s shoes.
As for the goalie position, freshman Bryce Crance got the starting nod, but the team will also be getting junior Nathan Wilson in the mix as well.
“(Crance) seems like he’s the real deal and we’re excited to see his progression throughout the season. We’ve got two competitive kids, they’re competing for the number one goalie spot,” said Brannon.
Division II is likely to be a dogfight as three teams from Division I were moved down, on top of the usual suspects in DII. Having a senior core that has played together for several seasons will help the Falcons make a run.
“This senior group has been great and moving in the same direction. Everyone has the same goal,” said Brannon.
The Falcons will next take on Ponaganset on Saturday in Burrillville. Revenge will be on their minds, as the Chieftains eliminated them from the postseason last year in a series in which multiple Falcon starters were dealing with illness.
“Pretty much everyone was in that playoff run last year, so they have this one circled on the calendar,” Brannon said.