Colby Men’s Ice Hockey Poised for Strong 2025-26 Season Opener Against Williams
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The Colby Collage men’s ice hockey team is gearing up for the 2025-26 season, beginning this Friday, November 14th, with a home game against Williams College at the O’Neil | O’Donnell forum.The Mules are looking to continue their dominance over the Ephs, a rivalry where Colby has consistently emerged victorious in recent years.
Recent Successes Fuel Optimism
Colby enters the new season following a accomplished 14-6-6 campaign in 2024-25, marking their eighth appearance in the NESCAC Tournament in the last nine seasons (excluding the shortened 2020-2021 season). Despite a semifinal loss to Tufts with a final score of 6-2, the team demonstrated meaningful progress and competitive strength. the Mules’ recent head-to-head record against Williams further underscores their momentum; they defeated Williams 4-1 in last year’s season opener in Williamstown and followed it up with a 3-0 shutout later in the season. In fact,Williams hasn’t defeated Colby since 2022.
Key players Return for 2025-26
A significant factor contributing to the team’s anticipated success is the return of their top-six goal scorers. Leading the charge is Massimo Gentile ’28,who topped the team in total points with 19,comprised of eight goals and 11 assists. Close behind is Will Soloway ’28, who recorded 18 points (six goals, 12 assists) during the 2024-25 season.
Beyond offensive prowess, the team boasts strong defensive capabilities. Soloway also excelled defensively, recording the second-most blocked shots on the team with 31. Alex Keskintepe ’28 returns with an remarkable team-leading plus/minus stat of +14, alongside 25 blocked shots.
In goal, the mules will once again rely on Cooper Diamond Bush, a 2024-25 All-NESCAC goalkeeper, who enters his sophomore season after a remarkable freshman year. He tallied an impressive 607 saves with a .934 save percentage, including a career-high 53 saves in a double-overtime victory against amherst in the conference quarterfinals.
Coaching Stability and New Additions
blaise MacDonald returns as The Jack Kelley Head Coach for his 14th season, providing consistent leadership and strategic direction. He will be supported by Johnny McElaney ’24, who joins the coaching staff in his first season after a successful playing career at Colby from 2020-2024. Mike Latendresse and Pertti hasanen also remain on the coaching team, bringing valuable experience and continuity. The team will also welcome a first-year class of five players, eager to contribute to the program’s continued success. Eight seniors will provide leadership and experience to the team this year.
Upcoming Schedule
Friday’s season opener against Williams is scheduled for a 7:00 PM start. Fans can fol
Why: The article details the Colby Men’s Ice Hockey team’s preparation for the 20
