Bombardiers Prepare to Battle On the Ice and Court

As the weather gets colder and the seasons are changing, the sporting events at the high schools change with them. The winter sports teams began on Friday and have been practicing hard the last two weeks.

hockey team is rounding into shape. Mike Cripps is the head coach for the Bombardiers. The most important position in hockey, one that can decide games, the goalie should be a strength for the team. "Our strength will be our goalie, senior Matt Whittingham," the coach said. The style of play is important, regardless of the sport, and determines your team identity. "We will try to play more defensive minded," Cripps said. "We have to limit our opponents' opportunities and have to be productive on the chances we get in the offensive zone."

Attleboro's main rivals will be Taunton, and North Attleboro according to the coach. In the past, the team has played more up-tempo and at a quicker pace according to the coach. The team lost three of their top goal scorers, who combined for 90 points last year. "The offense is led by our two senior captains John Beauregard and Jake Beaudry," Cripps said. The third captain, defense-man Dan Smith, should anchor the defense and provide strength for the team.

There will be some changes on the court this year. "Last year was a rebuilding year, our team was very young," said Coach Mike Riley. "We will return five starters and should gain off that experience." The team is switching to the Hockomock League this year and that presents quite a challenge. "The league has some great teams and great coaches," Riley said. Sophomore Brianna Hockwater plays a key role for the Bombardiers. 

The main rivals will be North Attleboro and Franklin, a team they've played in the states a few years. "We definitely have to be a transition team and get the transition offense going," Riley said. "We will be much more effective that way."

The boys team is also placing a big emphasis on defense and working together. Last year they won the league championship and they will be returning eight out of their top 12 players from last year, according to Mark Houle, the Bombardier's boys basketball coach. "I have high expectations and expect to contend for the Hockomock League title," Houle said.

All five of his starters return, as Bestlee Vazquez and J.J. Jolaoso anchor the backcourt. "It starts on the defensive end," the coach said. "We have to play solid half-court D." The Bombardiers will look to run and get in the open court. Malik Johnson, Nate Robitaille, and Kebba Nasso make up the rest of the starting lineup for the team. North Attleboro, Mansfield, King Phillip, and Franklin will be the main rivals for the Bombardiers.