The varsity boys hockey team has hit the ice this season with remarkable momentum, compiling an impressive 8-2 record in their first 10 games. Under the leadership of the team’s captain Senior Tate Batchelor, who has contributed 13 assists, and with the scoring prowess of Junior Tyson Miller, who has netted 12 goals so far, the team is showing both skill and teamwork this season. Fans and rival teams are taking notice as Stillwater continues to dominate on the ice, combining strategic plays with relentless team energy to make this one of their strongest starts in recent years.
Batchelor has played a key role in the teams strong start, contributing consistently and helping drive the team’s momentum early in the season.
“I think it’s important being a leader, you got to focus on other people because you’re appointed to do that,” Batchelor said. “At the same time, you’re always helping yourself out and leading by example.”
As captain, Batchelor views leadership as the responsibility of keeping every player aligned and committed to a shared goal. He emphasized that success is built through collective effort rather than individual performance.
“Making sure everyone’s on the same page and working together as a team is the biggest challenge,” Batchelor said. “Making sure you can help everyone out creates team success.”
That team-first mentality has marked a noticeable shift from last season. Batchelor said the player’s willingness to embrace a new approach has helped create a stronger environment.
“Everyone’s bought into what we’re doing compared to last year,” he said. “For everyone to come together and create a successful environment is really cool.” That buy-in has become a driving force behind Stillwater’s early-season success.
The team’s confidence was established early in the season, beginning with a dramatic opening-game victory. Senior forward and alternate captain Senior Luca Frascone delivered the game-winning goal in overtime, setting the tone for the year.
“Probably our first game of the year,” Frascone said. “I scored in overtime.” The moment validated the team’s offseason preparation and reinforced belief throughout the locker room.
Stillwater has also embraced an underdog identity this season, using it as motivation against tough opponents. For Frascone, the stakes are especially high as he enters the final season of his high school hockey career.
“So far, we’ve been an underdog the whole season, but we’ve finally shown people what we are,” Frascone said. “It’s my last year of hockey, so it means the most to me, and I just want to win.”
One game that highlighted the team’s resilience came against St. Thomas, when Stillwater struggled early but stayed composed. Batchelor said strong goaltending from Gavin Beida “kept us in it,” allowing the team to regroup and ultimately “get the job done.”
Offseason preparation has played a major role in Stillwater’s success. “Probably just my stamina and speed over the summer, just working every day,” Frascone said. “I think it’s paid off so far with our start.” That work has translated into a faster, more competitive presence on the ice.
Much of that improvement has been fueled by internal competition. Frascone credited one of his teammates for pushing him throughout the offseason.
“One of my good buddies, Mark, is tough because we train together the whole summer,” he said. “We always push each other.” That accountability has helped raise the standard across the roster.
While fans see results on the scoreboard, players say the true commitment happens long before the season begins. Frascone noted that the time spent training in the offseason often goes unnoticed.
“I think just the time we put in, not during the season, but the offseason,” he said. “Every day, just working up to the season.” That dedication has been evident in Stillwater’s pace and consistency.
For Frascone, being part of the team carries deep personal meaning as his high school career comes to a close. Playing alongside close friends has made the season even more significant.
“It means everything,” he said. “It’s my last year of hockey, and I just want to win with my best friends.”
With strong leadership, complete team buy-in and relentless offseason preparation, Stillwater has positioned itself for a memorable season. While the record reflects early success, the team remains focused on continued improvement. As the season progresses, Stillwater is proving its fast start is no coincidence, but the result of hard work, unity and a shared desire to win.
