According to Statistica, the number of high school ice hockey players in the United States reached a little over 42,000 in the 2023-24 school year. Although North Harford doesn’t have an associated hockey team, HarCo Hockey acts as a team students can play on.
Based out of Abingdon, the team practices two days a week – Mondays and Fridays. “Our team typically has games on Friday, but we have [the occasional] Wednesday game, too,” says junior Camden Pietrowski. The Hockey season is from September to February.
Sophomore Jedd Carll joined HarCo hockey in his freshman year. “I have been playing the sport since I was five, but I only recently joined this team.” Pietrowski has a similar story. “I’ve been on the team for three years but have been involved in hockey for 12.”
Positions on the ice include goalie, right winger, left winger, center, right defensemen, and left defensemen. “I’ve played defense my whole life,” says Carll. “That’s definitely my favorite to play.” Pietrowski adds that he likes, “center, because I feel like I’m involved in everything.” Junior Brandon Aungst is the goalie for HarCo hockey. “My team relies on me to save shots, and [that] is something I [really enjoy],” Aungst says.
“I love seeing people I know in the stands. Knowing that they are there to support me is really motivating,” says Pietrowski. Carll adds on that, “Having a coach that keeps you motivated can be [really encouraging].”. An incentive that encourages Aungst is ‘facing hard teams.’ “When we win against someone tough, that can really [lift spirits].”
Hockey is a sport that is close to a lot of the players’ hearts. “I have played my whole life. Being on the ice just feels natural [at this point],” Pietrowski shares. “It is so fast paced.” Carll agrees. “Hockey is such a [dynamic] sport and that is why I like it.”
There is lots of excitement on this team, especially when anticipating the rest of the season. “We have a solid squad, so I’m excited for the run we make in the playoffs.” says Pietrowski. “I think we can make it far,” Carll agrees.