The Town of Oyster Bay will host two Saturday night prime time high school ice hockey contests this season as part of its High School Hockey Night in Oyster Bay series held at the Town of Oyster Bay’s Ice Skating Center on Stewart Avenue in Bethpage, according to Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto.
Starting off the series will be the Massapequa Chiefs taking on the Syosset Braves on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 8 p.m. The second contest, featuring the Cold Spring Harbor Seahawks and the Bethpage Golden Eagles, is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 1, at 8 p.m.
“These events, which are free to all Town residents, feature high school teams that are among the finest in Nassau County,” Venditto said. “The players really look forward to competing at the Town of Oyster Bay’s state of the art rink and we are always pleased to have them here.”
Supervisor Venditto noted that Saturday night is a convenient time slot for people to attend the high school games.
“Parents and friends of the players, as well as high school ice hockey fans, don’t always get to see these outstanding games because of other commitments during the week,” the supervisor said. “That’s in large part, why High School Hockey Night in Oyster Bay is so special.”
Ice hockey on Long Island is continuing to grow in popularity, producing accomplished players who have gone on to compete at very high levels. The two Saturday night games will showcase some of the best talent in the area.
“Here’s your opportunity to catch the rising stars,” Venditto said. “The entire family will be able to enjoy the top tier action on the ice.”
Steve Rupp, President of the Nassau County High School Hockey League, said High School Hockey Night in Oyster Bay will have a special atmosphere.
“I am pleased to help facilitate these prime time games, which will surely create lasting memories for the players,” Rupp said. “I know the teams will be excited about playing before an enthusiastic crowd.”
Admission for these contests is free, but residents are encouraged to help others by donating two canned goods, which will be collected at the event by Island Harvest as part of ‘Hockey Fights Hunger.’ Venditto said the Town of Oyster Bay is honored to host this top echelon level high school hockey contest at the Town’s indoor ice skating center, which is considered by many to be among the finest facilities of its kind in the Nation.
“I expect many residents will appreciate seeing these outstanding high school teams compete,” Venditto said.
Venditto added the high school games will also serve as a fine example for the Town’s young hockey players, who can one day aspire to further their education through athletics.
“The game will feature terrific role models for our young hockey players and I encourage everyone to come out to support the competing teams,” he said. “It will be two great evenings of hockey and we’re pleased to have them right here in the Town of Oyster Bay.”
