Hockey’s back, and instead of searching for a game on a cable channel most people don’t have, you can come watch Long Beach State compete with some of the nation’s largest colleges right in your own back yard. Not enough for you? How about the fact that home games, at Glacial Gardens in Lakewood, are only six bucks?
For 2008-9, Eric Raimondo enters his second season as head coach and general manager. At his side will be Assistant Coach Joe Sheehy, who comes to Long Beach with 17 years of coaching and playing experience. “Joe will work with the offense this year, taking over the creativity up front,” said Raimondo. “He’ll definitely be a great asset for us.”
Frank “The Tank” Mitrano will be the number one goaltender, in his final season wearing a Beach jersey. His younger brother Dominic will play defense in front of him, the first time the Mitrano brothers have been on the same team in several years. Two young goaltenders, Alex Miklovic and Ricky St. Louis, will be Frank’s backup this season are being groomed to take over once Frank graduates in 2009.
Offensively, two 49er rookies to watch for are John Thompson and Paul Leigh. Thompson and Leigh played years of youth hockey together and bring a developed chemistry to the team. Rookie Chris Chan will skate on the top line with center Nate Gerrells and veteran team captain Joe Nalley.
Defensively, the 49ers are anchored by returning starters Jason Elliott and Tony Alarcon. Alarcon broke his arm during last season’s tryouts, but has battled back to rejoin the team this year. Raimondo says Alarcon is in better shape than ever and will be a force on the ice. Elliott is a skilled defenseman with a strong offensive sense, which makes him a threat on the power play and penalty kill. Kevin Chen, Tanner Woodbury, and the younger Mitrano are also expected to become major contributors in the 49er season.
San Diego State Univ. made the jump to D2 this season and will be the 49ers’ home opener opponent on October 16th. The 49ers are out for payback after the Aztecs stole two from the 49ers last December. Raimondo welcomes SDSU to D2. “It’s going to pick up the rivalry in the state,” said Raimondo. “Hopefully USC will have a better team, but it’s going to be nice to have another team that’s competitive nearby.
Texas A&M and Metro State of Utah will make their first ever trips to Long Beach in January. The following weekend will be the toughest test for the 49ers as fly to Colorado for games against powerhouses Denver Univ., Colorado State, and Colorado Univ.
Stay tuned to LBPOSTSports.com as we’ll provide you with updates throughout the season, and let you know about upcoming home games.
From reports by Phil Goodman