The Sewickley Academy Panthers Varsity Ice Hockey team played in the much anticipated season opener against the Chartiers Valley Colts on October 3^rd at the RMU ice arena.  The PIHL billed the game as one of their Premier Opening Night games, which included a pre-game ceremony that was highlighted by the playing of the National Anthem.

The Panthers faced a distinct disadvantage from the outset; the game was played less than one month after the start of formal practices, it was the first time the team had competed in a game or scrimmage during the 2016-2017 season, and the Panthers played the game with a limited roster (only twelve players were able to participate in the game).

Chartiers Valley pressed their advantage early under the guidance of head coach Paul Bonetti and scored four goals in the 1st Period.  The Panthers were able to make adjustments in the 2nd Period which resulted in better defensive play (the Panthers limited the Colts to just one goal in the 2^nd Period) and Freshman Liam Guerin notched a goal for the Panthers by scoring a short-handed goal (his first as a varsity player) that was assisted on by Sophomore Jackson Paul.  Fatigue set in for the Panthers in the 3^rd Period as a result of playing with a short bench and killing penalties (8 over the course of the game).  The Colts erupted for three more goals in the 3^rd Period that resulted in a final score of 8-1. 

Junior goaltender Cole Luther turned in an admirable performance, despite the loss, proving once again why he was selected as a 2015-2016 PIHL All Star; he made 56 saves on the 64 shots that he faced.  

While the loss was a disappointing start to the season, the coaching staff appreciated the effort and perseverance that the players displayed, especially the freshmen who were faced with competing at the varsity level for the first time.

Areas for improvement: