The Apple Valley boys’ hockey team is looking to rebound after last year’s struggles in the South Suburban Conference.

“We are looking to get back up over .500 this year, and I believe that we can do that,” said senior captain Tristen Plagge.

Apple Valley plays in the one of the toughest boys’ hockey conferences in the state year in and year out. With perennial powerhouse Lakeville North coming off an undefeated season, that will be no easy task.

“This team has a good combination of senior leadership and young talent,” said senior captain Adam Johnson. That senior leadership will be tested this season after graduating ten seniors last year.

“We’d like to grow as a team and I think that our young players can step up and play a big role for us,” said Plagge.

The boys’ hockey team is going with the motto “40 years of tradition” this year in honor of the original men’s hockey team at Apple Valley High School. The team will wear throwback 1976 uniforms as part of this commemoration.

The hockey team has already started their season 2-3-1, with their last game being an 8-2 loss to Farmington. The Eagles look to get back on track with a home game against Lakeville North this Thursday.