Last year, they were the Passaic County Champions. This year, the ice hockey team is back to defend that title.

The day before the opening game, an Alumni Game was held in honor of Brian Parello, a former West Milford student and hockey player who was killed in Afghanistan a decade ago. Players from various years were on the ice, the oldest graduating in 1996. A collection was organized for the Wounded Warriors Foundation, and over $250 was donated. Tee shirts are also being sold to support this noble cause.

Led by senior captains Joe Fenui and Jared Calise, the varsity level has been working very hard to have another successful year. The season officially started on November 29 against Ramsey. Unfortunately it resulted in a loss, but the team redeemed themselves in the second game with a 7-3 victory over Wayne Valley. Joe Fenui, Chris Dressler, Paul Roth, Kyle Little, Ryan Pych, and Andrew Ajello all scored. In this game Fenui reached 100 points – a much respected high school athletic milestone.

When the team played Ramapo on Friday, the game ended in a 2-2 tie. Seniors Joey Fenui and Nik Latronica secured the two Highlander goals. The next day, West Milford and Oratory Prep School met. The Highlanders won with an astonishing 10-0 score. Chris Dressler, Paul Roth, Joe Fenui, Nick Mays, Ryan Pych, and Matt Filipek all gained a goal, some scoring twice. Right now the record is 2-1-1, but that will change after the next game on Friday at 6pm at the Ice Vault in Wayne.