Caprock Academy High School Ice Hockey Team Promoted to Varsity for 2024-2025 Season
In an exciting development for sports in Grand Junction, Colorado, Caprock Academy's high school ice hockey team has been promoted to varsity level for the upcoming 2024-2025 season. This elevation marks a significant milestone for the team, which has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in their first year.
Caprock Academy's ice hockey program exploded on to the scene this past season thanks to the hard work of both the players and the coaching staff. The team's promotion to varsity status is a testament to their commitment and talent, and it opens up a new chapter of competition and opportunity for the players. Coach Lyle Wilkens led the boys to a 7-4-3 JV regular season record. The Eagles then reeled off 5 straight wins at the JV Elite Series Championships to earn the trophy as the top 4A JV team in the state.
"This inaugural season of CHSAA hockey has been an incredible experience for myself, the coaching staff, and (most importantly) the players of this organization. The team adapted well to the new environment, continuously growing to overcome obstacles both on and off the ice, and ultimately finished the season stronger than anyone anticipated.” Coach Wilkens went on, “This natural progression of competition and player development would not have come to fruition if not for the unprecedented efforts of all players, and the tremendous support of the school administration, parents, and fans of this high school hockey team. On behalf of all players and coaches of the many seasons to come, we thank you and look forward to the upcoming season."
The news has been met with excitement and anticipation from the players, who are eager to test their skills against tougher competition. "It’ll be a good opportunity for returning players and the upcoming group.” Marcus Meeks, starting goalie, shared, “The step up to varsity is big. The speed difference is massive. It’ll be more difficult, but we are looking forward to those battles.”
The team is already gearing up for the new season where they will compete in the 4A Mountain Division. The Eagles new divisional home is a powerhouse of Colorado high school hockey with all 6 teams finishing ranked in the top 10 in the 4A classification. Home games will see Steamboat Springs, Summit, Battle Mountain, Crested Butte, and the newly crowned state Champions from Durango visit the River City Sportplex next winter. Jon Larson, GM of River City Sportplex and Assistant Coach for the Eagles shared, “We were thrilled to have such a rewarding and successful inaugural season and we look forward to the challenge of stepping up to the varsity level.”
For more information, contact: Dan Salazar, [email protected]