Saint Viator Varsity 2 is filled with talent, skill, size and speed, but also is young and inexperienced as half of the team is skating at the high school level for the first time.

“We’re an exciting, motivated and hungry group of players looking to make a name for ourselves,” said head coach Jason DeMaria, in his 17th season coaching.

Key players for the Lions’ AHL team include forwards Matt Ciccone, Mason Steffan and Sam Prieto, plus defensemen Mike Ciccone and Jake Farrell.

“We are lucky this year with a group of forwards who bring a strong sense of hockey IQ, along with a solid fundamental skill set which packs some offensive firepower,” DeMaria said. “Speed and skating ability, creative passing and puck movement and a natural knack for scoring goals,” fill the team’s offense

“Our strong defensive core has size and strength and are not afraid to get physical in our own zone. Overall, they can move the puck up ice quickly and can contribute in the offensive zone.”

The Lions boast two skilled netminders, both returners. “Having both played high school hockey last season, we’re confident in their leadership through experience as our last line of defense in the crease,” said DeMaria, 38, who lives in Wauconda.

DeMaria said the team’s goal is simple: be one of the top AHL teams and make a run at the championship.

“(The AHL) will be a big change of pace for our roster as most of our players are coming right from playing AA club last season, but they’re a highly motivated group with a winning track record.”

DeMaria said the key will be the team’s ability to come together quickly and getting everyone on the same page and executing their systems.

Breakout Player: Keep an eye on defenseman Brian Rittle, who was the captain of Viator’s JV team last year. “He made huge strides in developing his game,” during the off-season, DeMaria said. “Each of the last few seasons he’s been challenged with playing at a higher level with more responsibility to his team and he’s been up to the challenge and answered the call.”