OP Hockey 2025-26 Preview

The high school hockey season is quickly approaching and will be here before you know it. With the 2024-2026 campaign comes a lot of changes and growth from the team. Oratory Varsity Ice Hockey has had its ups and downs in the past but has always been able to persevere through it. Over the off-season the team has welcomed many changes, including a new head coach, Barry Dreger. Dreger has an impressive background in hockey and looks to start a strong new chapter here at OP. The team is very optimistic about the new season.
This years team is very senior heavy this year. Starting off, 4-year varsity players, Henry Zahn and Will Mazzei have been named Co-Captains for the season. Other seniors Kevin Geiger, Jeff Child and Thomas Walden will look to build off their junior campaign. Returning varsity players such as Lucas Viviani, Ronan McGuire, Matt Moran, Ben Pagliaro, and Hudson Saunders will also look to make great improvements this season and increase their point production. The team also looks to some of the younger players for some development.
This year, the Rams have a mixed schedule. The team is now in the McMullen conference, meaning the competition will be a bit lighter. Oratory should be favorites to lift the cup in February, however it won’t be easy. Additionally, the team has some very rough matchups outside the division with tough games against St. Peters and Pope John.
Overall, it is looking like a tough, yet exciting season for the rams. Coach Dreger is going to push the boys to be the best players they can be. The boys have been getting dialed in and are ready for the puck to drop in a few short weeks.