Tritons hockey relishes time at Resch

Updated: Sunday, 22 Jan 2012, 7:44 PM CST
Published : Sunday, 22 Jan 2012, 7:44 PM CST

ASHWAUBENON - One of the best high school teams in Wisconsin took to the same ice as some of the best young players in the country. Notre Dame Academy boys hockey played two weekend games at the Resch Center as part of the Showdown at Titletown tournament. The same weekend, the national under-18 developmental team visited the Gamblers.

The Tritons, who entered the weekend with just one loss, enjoyed seeing some of the nation’s top talent.

“When we were getting warmed up for our game, we were watching them before they went on the ice, seeing what they had to say, it was pretty cool to see them, what they do before their games and preparation,” said Notre Dame forward Mason Appleton.

The Tritons played following the Gamblers and Team USA on Friday night, then were the opening act for the Gamblers game Saturday evening.

“The kids get to watch the Gamblers all year long, then they get a chance to play in their building right before them or right after them is a special thing for high school kids,” said Notre Dame head coach Cory McCracken.

The Tritons split their two games at the Resch Center, collecting their first loss against an opponent from Wisconsin in a 4-3 overtime defeat against Marquette University High School Saturday night.

"It'll be a good learning lesson for our group, hopefully we respond well tomorrow, we'll see where it takes us from there,” said McCracken.

The Tritons rebounded from the Saturday night setback to beat Eau Claire Memorial 5-0 in a Showdown at Titletown match-up.