As the combined Mountain Vista/Highlands Ranch hockey team heads into the final stretch of their season, their ranking remains within the top half of the league. As of Jan. 29, the team ranks 14th in the Foothills League with a record of 5-6-2. The record may not prove it, but the team has remained competitive among the top three ranked teams.
On Jan. 18, Vista went up against the then number two ranked team Chaparral. Leading all the way through the third period, Vista looked as if they were about to upset Chaparral. Late in the third period, Chaparral scored the tying goal to even up the score at 2-2. The game proceeded into overtime where the game would eventually end up in a tie. That game would move Vista from 21st to 14th and Chaparral out of the second place position.
Vista was also able to take down then number two ranked Monarch on January 24th. Vista took another early lead in the first period and scored another two goals in the second period to put them ahead 3-1 over Monarch.
The team’s recent success hasn’t come easy, however, with injuries plaguing their season. Team captains have tried to keep the team focused through the adversity they face together. Benjamin Ford said, “Injuries are a part of hockey. The way we handle adversity is what really matters.”
According to the social media manager, Ayah Bouayad, the team has done a very good job of going against the tough challenges the team faces. “Once the guys step onto the ice, they have a whole other mentality,” Bouayad said. “The team does an amazing job at getting focused and staying focused for the game.”
Leading goal scorer Ethan Dupree believes the team can overcome anything. “Our team is stronger when we face adversity. It’s what we live for,” Dupree said. “Whether it’s sickness or injuries, we know that we’re going to get through it and there’s no stopping us.”
The Eagles also took down Ralston Valley in the Wish Week game on Feb. 5, with a final score of 4-3. With the season wrapping up, the combined Mountain Vista/Highlands Ranch team looks to finish as strong as possible, despite the bumps along the road.
Zachary Salcido, Staff Reporter
