Hopes are high for the incoming boys’ ice season with a new head coach as well as talented seniors who are ready to redeem Glen Rock’s name after last year’s devastating Public C semi-final loss.

Former head coach, Anthony Yelovich, stepped down following last season, in hopes to develop his coaching career to the college level. Yelovich led Glen Rock in their first state title during 2016-2017 season, where they defeated Wall 8-1. Dean Portas, former Ramsey and Northern Highlands coach, will replace Yelovich this year.

Despite the loss of seven graduating seniors, Portas and his team are not worried about this season.

Senior goalie, Max Lindley, will be filling the shoes of Ryan McCauley, who is now playing at Syracuse. The class of 2017 and 2018 contained some of the most skilled players in Glen Rock, including Matt Maselli, Ryan McCauley, John LaMacchia, Jake Kinney, and Peter Cassidy, but Lindley feels that this loss will not hurt the team.

“We always have great players coming through the program, so when they graduate there are always new players ready to step up,” Lindley said. see.”

Senior captains, Pat Smith and Jared Brassil are prepared to lead the team after four years of varsity hockey. Last year, Jared Brassil was third in scoring, with 11 goals while Pat Smith assisted on seven goals.

Coach Dean Portas is known as one of the best coaches in the state. During the 2015-2016 season, Portas led Ramsey to win the state championship, with a record of 25-2-2. During that season, Portas was recognized as the NJ.com Coach of the Year.

According to NorthJersey.com, Portas left Ramsey following a dispute with their administration, a surprise to many Ramsey players.  

Last season, the administration failed to renew Portas’ contract due to complaints from parents. Although much of the team supported his coaching style, some disagreed with Portas’ decisions. Portas failed to contact players after they quit the team and not giving varsity players to all members of the team.

Students described Portas as a dedicated and experienced coach and were sad to see him leave.

Despite this controversy, Glen Rock is excited to welcome Portas as their new head coach. Lindley believes that Portas will be a vital asset to their success this season.

“Portas has a lot of experience to bring to the team that will definitely help us this season,” Lindley said. “We made it to the semifinals last year, but that’s not good enough. We need to make the finals and win.”