Oakland University’s ACHA D1 Hockey club is skating into the season with determination, despite facing challenges such as a short roster and balancing student-athlete responsibilities. From seasoned players to newcomers, the team is united by a shared love for the game and a desire to grow individually and collectively. As the season progresses, their focus is on improving team chemistry, sharpening their skills and making their mark in the league.
“I like where our chemistry is at, but it could use improvement,” junior Stefano Mini said. “A bit more off-ice bonding would help, but with everyone’s mixed schedules, we don’t get the chance as much as we’d like. My personal goal would be to be a better leader for the team, wearing a letter requires that and there is always room to improve. I would also like to produce more points for the team and be more of a key player.”
Freshman Gonzalo Eberhardt-Almanza, who started playing hockey at the age of 16 after being inspired by his father, is adjusting to the demands of collegiate hockey. His connection with the coach and desire to grow as a player influenced his decision to join Oakland’s team.
“Part of the reason I committed to Oakland was that I knew the coach from my time in juniors,” Eberhardt-Almanza said. “We talked about the type of team he wanted to build, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I’ve got bigger goals of playing NCAA and maybe professionally, and the coaches here support that.”
Sophomore Vinnie Anderson, who transferred from NCAA hockey to Oakland, brings a competitive edge to the team. Anderson credits the team’s camaraderie for making the experience enjoyable while balancing the challenges of playing with a short roster earlier in the season.
“Being on the team makes college a lot more fun,” Anderson said. “I’ve made friends I know will stick around for a long time. It’s a way for me to interact with people who are similar to me and gives me the ability to achieve something.”
The players emphasize how critical it is to improve both on and off the ice. From cleaner breakouts in the defensive zone to a more aggressive forecheck in the offensive zone, they see untapped potential in the team’s game.
“As a team I really want to make it to the playoffs and make a deep run,” Eberhardt-Almanza said. “Another goal for the team but it might selfishly be mine, is I want to beat a really good team in our division. There’s a mentality that people have when they play this team, and they think it’s an instant loss. I wanna flip the script. I know we have it in us to do great things. It’s just about unlocking it and showing that full potential.”
As the season continues, Oakland’s club hockey team is optimistic about their potential and committed to growing together. With a mix of experience, determination and camaraderie, they’re striving to turn challenges into opportunities and make their mark on the ice.
To learn more about the team and their events, visit their Instagram page @oaklandhockey, or visit their website at oaklandhockey.org.
