Zebras Shine in Innsbruck: A Dominant Victory to Cap Off European Tour

The Groton Boys' Varsity Ice Hockey team concluded their European tour with a dominant performance against the Innsbruck Sharks U20 team on New Year's Day. The game was held at the stunning Olympiaworld Innsbruck sports complex in the Tiwag Arena, a venue that has twice hosted the Winter Olympics. This historic setting provided the perfect backdrop for the Zebras' impressive 7-2 victory.

Groton wasted no time asserting themselves, jumping to an early lead when KJ Ni found the back of the net. Nate Moons extended the lead with a power play goal, giving the Zebras a 2-0 advantage. The game remained tightly contested throughout the first period, but the Zebras came out hungry in the second, unleashing a scoring barrage. Raffael Abberbach, Angus Frew, Zach Baker, and KJ Ni (with his second goal of the game) all lit the lamp, solidifying Groton’s control. The Sharks managed to add a goal to get on the board, but the deficit was too great to overcome.

In the third period, the Zebras added one final goal to seal the 7-2 rout. Groton’s goalies, Alex Wang and Wes DiModica, split duties between the pipes and turned aside several strong chances from the Sharks, ensuring the victory.

This game marked the conclusion of Groton’s European adventure, and the boys celebrated by attending a professional game later that evening. They watched the Innsbruck Sharks take on the Bolzano Foxes in front of a sellout crowd, soaking in the atmosphere of elite European hockey.

The trip to Austria provided the team with unforgettable experiences both on and off the ice. The Zebras will return home with memories to cherish and a renewed sense of camaraderie and determination for the rest of their season. The will take on Exeter upon their return to the States later this week.