When you think of the competitive sports teams here at Pascack Valley, it’s a pretty safe bet to say that the ice-hockey team is not the first one to come to mind. However, when you take an in-depth look at the team and it’s atypical circumstances, it may be the most interesting one of all.

Unlike the majority of PV’s sports, the hockey team doesn’t practice right after school on a daily basis. It has three practices per week, all off-campus at facilities either in Englewood or Monsey, which are both about 25 minutes away. On top of the distant locations, two out of their three weekly practices are late at night. They begin at 9 p.m., and they usually don’t return to PV until 11-11:30 p.m. The other weekly practice is right after school.

“That’s how it’s mostly different from other sports,” coach Ken DelSanto said. “Most sports get to practice right after school. We’re practicing at times that are dictated by the facilities that we go to.”

Despite being inconvenient, the schedule doesn’t bother all of the team’s players.

“Personally, I don’t mind it. For me, practice is relaxing and just clears my mind and just allows me to work on my skills,” said senior goaltender Stephen Brennan, the captain of the hockey team.

The practice schedule isn’t the only odd feature of the hockey team. Perhaps what’s even more peculiar is the “Pay-to-Play” aspect. DelSanto would not disclose the exact amount that it costs to play on the team, but he did say that “it does cost over a thousand dollars” per athlete.  

Although very pricey, the players understand that it’s necessary, as it costs money for time slots at the rink, not to mention the abundance of equipment.

“I don’t know the exact cost, however it certainly is not inexpensive,” Brennan said. “Just to practice, it would cost us money since we don’t have our own rink.”

Attendance at games is also unlike sports such football and basketball, as many take place late at night, therefore causing attendance numbers to be inconsistent.

“It varies from game to game because some games start at 10 p.m. at night. Other games start at times that are more appropriate for students to come out,” DelSanto said.

The Indians are currently 7-16-1, and will wrap up their season shortly. PV’s next game is Wednesday against River Dell.