Hockey season is back America, and few others seem to be as excited as Pioneer hockey player and Community High sophomore Covey Hurd. Coming off a more “role playing” freshman 2016-17 season, a bigger, stronger, more experienced Hurd is ready to take on a big role for the Pioneers.

“As a freshman I got pushed around a little bit… I’m a sophomore now; I’m bigger and faster,” Hurd said.

Hurd is not the only member of the Pioneers on the come up. The team took on former Oakland Junior Grizzlies AAA forward Gaiden Heatly, and brought back 15-goal-scorer Captain Wyatt Bullinger. “Last year was fun, but this year will be better,” Hurd said.

As important as stats like goals and +/- may be, many hockey players consider their most valuable attribute to be their hair, most commonly referred to as ‘flow’. “Flow is big in hockey; getting it to dance out of the back of your helmet while you skate, that’s the goal,” Hurd said. “It earns respect.”

The Pioneers opened up the season last night, November 15, with a tie at home, where Hurd played center and picked up his first assist of the year. “Though I’m mostly with the third line, I got out a lot with the first and second lines.” Hurd said.

Hurd is looking forward to this season of Pioneer hockey, and has big aspirations for the team. “We look good,” Hurd said. “I think we’re a favorite for the [city championship].”