The DeMatha Stags hockey team has been on a tear. Currently third in the MAPHL with a record 5-3-1, they’ve won three of their last four games. The team opened their MAPHL schedule with a 3-3 tie against St John’s, who is currently first in the standings.
An experienced starter from last year, sophomore Kellen DePola shares his thoughts says consistency is key. “The season has had many ups and downs but what matters is sticking together as a team. A big thing for us is consistency. Once we become consistent, we will bloom into one of the best. I am ready to go to the playoffs and prove to everyone we belong.”
Kellen is the team’s assist leader and is currently second on the team with 6 points coming from 2 goals and 4 assists. He says his “ability to put my teammates in good positions and opportunities” is one of his best traits. “That is a way I can elevate the team with my play making.”
Jack Johnson, a senior goalie, is one of the leaders of the team. He discussed the importance of these next couple games. “This is the home stretch so there are not many more games. This will mean a lot for the upperclassmen and especially the seniors. We are starting to get into conference play… Those are always tough games. With January 23 being our senior night, that is not only important for the seniors but the whole team as that is the time to come together before playoffs.”
Jack is a stellar goalie not only in the conference but in the state of Maryland. He transferred last year so this is his second year on DeMatha’s prep team. Jack has a great save rate at 90.8 percent. He relies on his athleticism for his success in the net. “I am very fast for a goalie so I am able to react fast and make plays.”
Sophomore Mason Schodzinski is another underclassman like DePola who contributes to the team. He started on the first line as a freshmen, so he has experience. “When we can play with a good attitude that is when we are at our best. That along with consistency is what we need to get better at. Once we get that down is when we will be at our best.”
The Stags did not have any games over break so their first game in three weeks was Wednesday against the purple school from D.C. They started 2026 on a high note with a 2-1 victory. They’ll be on the road Friday at St. John’s and Monday at O’Connell for non-league games. Their next MAPHL matchup will be January 20 at Bullis. To the student body, come out and support your fellow Stags as these next three games are major for the team.