Canisius’ six sophomores are balanced by a solid core of senior leaders this season, and a hardworking mindset unites them all toward one common goal: a Niagara Cup Championship.
“We’re gonna be bit younger compared to years past,” Canisius coach Sam Belsito said. “We are carrying six sophomores. Big in stature, big in heart, good character kids who want to be around, have been around all summer, and work hard.”
Ryan O’Donnell stood tall in net for Canisius last season, but he has since graduated. Belsito expects Alex Sabuda to step up this year, along with junior Noah Spiesz, who has already impressed Belsito with his hard work through the summer and fall.
“We have another junior, Noah Spiesz, who’s been working his way through the program, and he’s been around all summer, working out and training hard, so he’s here in the second spot.”
Captains have not been named yet, but seniors Cole Beiter, Jack Dallas, Matt Kreuzer, Max Brown, Noah Braun, and Jack Coyne are among the senior returners whom Belsito expects to mentor and lead the younger players. In his three seasons as head coach so far, Belsito has traditionally expected strong leadership from his seniors, especially his captain.
“That’s where we’re looking for the leadership to start,” Belsito said.
And those seniors are hungry for a championship this season. Beiter was on the Canisius state championship team three years ago, but the Crusaders were stopped short by rival St. Joe’s the past two years. They know it will take a hardworking mentality, and that’s the motto for the 2017-18 season.
“Work hard, play hard,” Belsito said. “Play for each other. Stick up for each other. Take care of things on our end, and we’ll see where it goes.”