Bellmore-Merrick Hockey Ices Port Washington

The Bellmore-Merrick Bulldogs got out to an early lead against Port Washington at the Newbridge Arena Ice Skating Rink last night. Coach Christopher Patten had a lot to say about his team and their 6-2 win.

"These are some of the finest student athletes our schools have," Patten said. "The character and hard work are surpassed by none."

The Bulldogs are in their second year of school funded play. Before, most teams in the league were considered club teams, such as Monday's opponent Port Washington. This means that the players pay a fee to play and anyone who wants to play, can.  

Patten was more than enthusiastic about the opportunity the district has given him and his team for the second straight year and knows what it means to these kids and their families. 

"The next goal is to become Section 8 recognized, like other high school sports," he added.

One player the coach singled out as a true leader was veteran senior, current team captain and defenseman, Mike Mascaro. Standing out all game long wearing a red helmet and the number 23, Mascaro showed confidence and skill as the last line of defense between an opponent and the team goalie on numerous plays.

"Mike was selected to the Light House All-Star team to represent Nassau County," Patten added. "It's his fourth year on the team and he's an incredible student."

The Light House tournament is set up in conjuncture with the New York Islanders, the Light House Project and Long Island Hockey. The All-Star game is between Nassau and Suffolk county, team members are made up of exceptional hockey talents from various school all over the two counties. The game is played on Islanders home ice at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and has been covered by IslandersTV.

Bellmore-Merrick must work hard the rest of the year and get healthy hockey players back from injuries to stay in the race, as Coach Patten said.

"Hockey is a very physically demanding sport and at all times this year their have been four to eight injuries," he added.

The league currently amounts to eight teams with only the top four making the playoffs, currently the Bulldogs are in the thick of the race.