Edwardsville’s ice hockey program cemented its recent dominance by capturing the Mississippi Valley Club Hockey Association championship for the third straight year, a feat that underscores the team’s consistency and depth.
At the heart of the run was junior forward Blake Huneke, whose breakout season featured 28 goals and 32 assists, placing him sixth in the league for goals and second overall in points. Huneke’s impact was evident early, as his tally in Game 2 of the finals gave Edwardsville a 2-1 lead, and he added three more goals in the championship series, including the decisive strike that helped seal the victory.
Co-MVPs and Leadership Drive the Triumph
Defenseman Reid Poettker, the team’s senior captain, anchored the blue line with 18 goals and three assists while serving as a primary weapon on the power play. His leadership was especially vital on a roster that lost roughly three-quarters of its offensive production from the previous season, providing a steadying presence for a group filled with newcomers.
Coach Jason Walker praised the duo, highlighting how Huneke’s offensive surge and Poettker’s defensive reliability complemented each other and helped the team overcome the challenges of a rebuilding year. Both players were recognized as co-MVPs for their outstanding contributions and leadership on and off the ice.
The championship not only adds another trophy to Edwardsville’s showcase case but also signals a promising future as the core of the team returns next season. With Huneke and Poettker set to continue leading, the program looks poised to maintain its upward trajectory in the competitive club hockey landscape.