Senior captain Campbell Gwin sends the puck out of Academy’s zone. (Credit/Mark L’Hommedieu).

Following a 5-6 start to the season, the Vikes looked to gain some momentum heading into the January 10th Pioneer Classic with a win against Olentangy on Sunday, but two goals from Campbell Gwin’21 failed to defeat the Braves, putting Academy fourth in its division on 11 points.

First up in the tournament, the Vikings had a rematch against the Olentangy Braves on Friday, January 15.

Senior Nate Rausch fired a goal with just 7:33 left in the first period, but the Braves quickly leveled, sending the game to first intermission tied 1-1. In the second period, though, the Braves came out with guns blazing, scoring three unanswered goals. Unfortunately, Academy could not stage a comeback in the third, with Olentangy scoring another goal to end the game 1-5.

On Saturday, January 16, Academy played two matches. The first against the PHA Prowlers and the second against Dublin Coffman. In the both matches, the team just edged its opponent for a 4-3 win.

Finally, on Sunday, January 17, the Vikes were scheduled to play Springboro, but a last minute change put the team up against Bishop Watterson. Unfortunately, Watterson took advantage of the tired Academy squad and cruised to a 9-0 win.

After a well deserved rest, Academy will look to get back to its winning ways against the DeSales Stallions on Friday, January 22, at Chiller Ice Works.