The Express are up to the challenge, according to the team’s coaches. “We played a tough exhibition schedule the last few weekends and have had an opportunity to get in a lot of work as we prepare for the regular season,” said Coach Mark Kumpel. “We have improved in all positions and while it will be a work in progress, Coach/GM Tony Dalessio and I are optimistic about the product we have on and off the ice this season.”

Season Preview
After enduring a competitive pre-season schedule that included exhibition games against Quebec CGEP and Eastern Junior League teams, the Express aims for a strong showing in the 2009-10 AJHL regular season. This year, the team will be bolstered up front by the return of forwards Steve Charest, Lou Malvasi, Matt Harrington and Cody Armstrong. All four forwards will see significant ice time on the top two lines and special teams. Other returning forwards who will be looked upon to support the front line are Austin Gorsvenor, Matt Venoit and Ed Rohaly.

On defense, the Express have some veteran Jr hockey players but only a single blueliner -- Chris Comprosky -- from last season’s team. Helping him on patrol are Brian Greene, who last season played with the Boston Bulldogs, Matt Hogan, from the Valley Jr. Warriors, and Ben Oskroba, from the Phoenix Polar Bears. They each bring significant Jr. A experience and will immediately improve the Express’ backline. Jake Brightbill, the youngest defender who joins the Express from the Central Penn Panthers, will also step into the top three pairings.

In net, the team shows strong promise. The Express acquired 2008-09 AJHL Rookie of the Year Derek Kump in trade with the Bulldogs and elevated MJHL All-Star Zach Andrews who was the Express starting Jr. B goaltender last season.

Upcoming Games
The regular season begins this weekend in Connecticut. On Friday, Sept. 26, the A team will face off against the Washington Jr. Nationals at 8:00 pm; on Saturday, Sept. 26, against the New Jersey Rockets at 7:30 pm; and on Sunday, Sept. 27, against the Binghamton Jr. Senators at 8:30 am. The Express will play the home opener against the Northern Cyclones on Saturday, October 18 at Iorio Arena in Walpole, Mass.