On Nov. 2, the Oxford Wildcat icers will open their 2004-05 season under the direction of retired professional hockey player, Dave Hague.
As a former A-league hockey player for St. Louis, Hague’s professional perspective should give the team both insight and advantage on the ice.
Hague, a Lake Orion native, joined the A-league straight from high school. After injuries forced him to retire, he went on to Rochester College for a degree, but the siren song of the ice called him to coach at Oxford.
Having been a hockey player since he was old enough to don a pair of skates, Hague said he’s anxious to get back in the game and can’t wait for the season to begin.
Hague is quite pleased with what he’s seen so far from the approximately 30 hockey hopefuls who show up for weight training
‘Our first game is not until November, so I haven’t seen them skate, but I am impressed with the spirit I’ve seen from them,? he said.
‘The team chemistry and work ethic at such an early stage has been excellent.?
Although there are only enough uniforms to dress 18 players, Hague and returning coach Rick Ignanai are encouraged by the promise shown by the ‘up and coming? freshmen.
With the addition of weight training guidance from Bruce Biebuyck, Hague said the coaching staff plans to build a good hockey program, taking full advantage of the professional facilities and atmosphere at the new high school field house.
‘Most of these guys have six years experience behind them and we’re looking forward to making them better hockey players,? Hague said, adding that his objective for the team is to win a lot and have fun doing it.
‘This program is growing every year and we’re building it with a lot of new things in the making,? he said.
Athletic Director Pat Ball said the addition of Coach Hague to the hockey program will bring a new energy to the team.
‘Now, it’s just a matter of getting them out on the ice,? Ball said with a chuckle.