The 2024-2025 hockey season ended on a sour note for the Westminster Wildcat hockey team losing the final game to finish the season with a 8-12 record. However, a new season brings renewed optimism thanks to a strong preseason. 

The cats came out strong this pre-season with two wins and a promising tie in the Parkway West Invitational preseason tournament. After a disappointing season, coming out hot gives the cats the energy and momentum they need to produce a successful season. During an interview with junior forward Nathan Charnes he states, “Our team is definitely in a better place than it was at the beginning of the year last year with the new kids that came in”. 

The cats had a let down of a season last year, not producing much and not winning the cup like they had hoped. Additionally, sophomore Alex Steir who was an impact player last year for the cats, transferred. The cats will need some younger guys to step up and be impactful. Charnes says, “With the new kids that came in I think were seeing some pretty good skills.” 

Although the odds are not in the cats favor coming off a let down of a season and losing a strong player. Sophomore, Archer Walker, and junior, David Creel, played extremely well in the preseason tournament and look promising this season for the cats. In an interview with Senior captain, Jacob Declue he praises his teammate: “And especially David Creel, David played and amazing game.” 

Additionally, Declue has high hopes for the coming season. The team spirit is high and should provide for a successful season. The cats look to produce wins and give an exciting atmosphere for big games. Declue states, “I think we have some pretty high expectations and it should be a great year.” 

The cats look to come out strong on November 1st against Northwest, they face off at 8:45 at the Webster Ice Rink. A win to start off the regular season could look promising. Make sure to support the Wildcats on the ice this winter and help them to destroy their competition.