Feb. 8, 2025
By Jenifer Ali
Staff Writer
With a record of 7-14 as of Feb. 8, the hockey team, which is co-oped with Mahwah and Paramus High Schools, has had a challenging season.
Senior Gianna DeCoro, who plays center, said she has improved during her four years on the team.
“I’ve learned to use my mistakes as a learning point,” DeCoro said.
She said she appreciates the friendships she forged on the team.
“I’ve made so many great friends through hockey, and it’s been amazing to meet people from other schools,” DeCoro said. “Being around my teammates makes me happy and keeps me focused.”
DeCoro said her cousins and uncle inspired her to take up the sport.
“[They] have always been playing hockey, so once I saw them playing, I always wanted to join them,” DeCoro said.
Sophomore Ryan Lemanowicz, who plays defense and joined the team last year, said teamwork has shaped his development in the sport.
“Being around my teammates makes me happy and keeps me focused.”
“Even though I’m still early in my high school career, I’ve already learned so much from being on this team,” Lemanowicz said. “Hockey teaches you to work hard, adapt quickly and overcome challenges.”
He said his teammates enjoy each other’s company.
“We support each other no matter what,” Lemanowicz said. “Even outside games and practices, we spend time together and build strong bonds.”
Lemanowicz said being a successful hockey player requires determination.
“Hockey is a challenging sport, and even when it seems hard, you just have to try and fight for it and overcome it,” said Lemanowicz.
