The Bernards Hockey team had a very successful season, especially when compared to seasons past. The team, which is comprised of Bernards and Somerville players, finished the season with a 10-12-1 record in an extremely difficult Skyland Conference made up of many large schools.

Senior captain Mark McGriskin led the attack with 12 goals and 16 assists and alternate captain Jack Keating led a strong defense. A unique part of this season was the McGriskin trio, Mark, Curtis (junior), and Ryan (freshman) all played on the same line together. This was an experience that they had never been able to have on a competitive stage ever before.  Mark said, “It was great to play together for the first time, and I wish I could play high school hockey with my brothers for the rest of my life.”

While the season did not start of very well, it turned around after a comeback victory against Hillsborough. The win put Bernards Hockey above .500 for the first time in two years, and gave them the motivation to strive for a great season. Junior Curtis McGriskin said “It was a key victory that really motivated the team to continue to play well.”

The team’s success continued into the state tournament. The team won its first round game against West Windsor. “We got pretty far because the last couple of years we haven’t gotten to states, which means we are improving as a team,” said freshman Peter Yarosh. The team eventually lost to top seeded Bridgewater, but we can only expect more success in the future.