The Middle Village Players Roller Hockey League celebrates its second triumph of the year with its opening ceremony – QNS.com

The Middle Village Players Roller Hockey League kicked off its opening day on Saturday, April 6th for the second time in its history with a series of intense games and new teams.

President Paul Pogozelski, with the help of his family, other community members and the players, revived the program last year as part of a hockey league that existed many years ago.

The Middle Village Hockey League has continued to grow in numbers and community support since its inception. The James Bohan Hockey Rink at Juniper Valley Park is thriving with young hockey stars looking to get their name out there and supportive parents watching their kids play every week.

Pogozelski, first named Coach Pogo by the Ridgewood Times in July 2023, remained humble about his accomplishments as he expressed his gratitude to opening day attendees.

“Honestly, it’s very humbling to be part of her childhood. I know that in 20 years or so they will remember these moments and it means a lot to us to be a part of it. Thank you for your trust,” Pogozelskis said to a mixed crowd of parents, fans and players.

The league's sponsors, who had supported Pogozelski's efforts from the beginning, were also thanked for their continued contributions.

Special thanks to Rudy's Bakery located on Seneca Ave. 905 in Ridgewood, which provided sweet treats on opening day – similar to what the bakery had done at previous games – and to Crifasi Real Estate, where company owner Salvatore Crifasi attended the opening ceremony.

Other outstanding sponsors appreciated on opening day included Eileen Moloney, the first founder of the Middle Village Hockey League, as well as several young residents who contributed to the upkeep of the hockey rink.

The New York City Parks Department, VFW Post 551, and the offices of Congresswoman Grace Meng, Councilman Robert Holden and Senator Joesph P. Addabbo Jr. were also recognized for their help in supporting the League.

A final honorable mention from the league president went to his wife Giedre and his sister for their unwavering support.

“If we don’t have people looking out for us, who knows where we’ll go,” Pogozelski added.

As the opening day ceremony came to a close, the Hockey League teams took their positions in a series of exciting games. New teams appeared this year, the Tigers and the Thunder Trucks, and the Dolphins and Cardinals also played to secure their spots for the remainder of the year.

In the first game, the Tigers won 9:6 over the Thunder Trucks. Hat tricks from Simon Steskal and Alex Posylkin each gave the Tigers 3 points, in addition to 26 saves from the Tigers' Alex Sliwa.

Paul and Jack Pogozelski each scored two goals for the Thunder Trucks, but suffered a loss overall.

In game two, the Dolphins and Cardinals squared off in a game that didn't hold back some high-profile plays. With a score of 8:1, the Dolphins secured their place at the start of the season.

Dolphins player Quinn Tashiro prevented the Cardinals from gaining momentum, and Dolphins net tender Oliver Falandysz stopped 14 of his 15 shots, ultimately securing the victory.

Despite being defeated, Mathew Koenig scored the only goal of the day for the Cardinals. Veteran net tender Gino Campo stood on his head and saved 41 shots, earning him Star of the Week honors with this outstanding performance, which also included several glove saves.

The next games will take place on Saturday, April 13th, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m

Full results and standings can be found at mvproroller.com.

Additional information was provided by Paul Pogozelski.