The Santa Rosa Junior College hockey team fell 8-1 to Santa Clara University in SRJC’s first home game and fourth loss of the season at Snoopy’s Home Ice Oct. 4.
The Polar Bears struggled to open the season, losing their first three games on the road. The team will continue to focus on development and consistency as they move forward, according to players.
The team struggled during the first period but tightened its defense as the game continued, with defenseman Kai Krombholz scoring the Polar Bears’ only goal midway through the second period.
Despite the lopsided score, SRJC players said they were encouraged by signs of progress.
“Obviously, it was pretty raw, and tonight we got our butt kicked,” SRJC center Adam Berry said. “But as the game went on, we’re finding those wins, finding how to learn on the ice. Half our squad is very new to hockey, but we’re building something special.”
Santa Clara came out strong, scoring five straight goals in the first period. SRJC goalie Luc Caron held off several close shots and kept the game within reach despite unrelenting pressure.
SRJC got on the board during the second period when Krombholz scored off a setup play, giving the home crowd something to cheer for. Santa Clara responded later in the period with one goal to extend its lead to 6-1.
“Luc is the polar bear holding it down for us,” Berry said. “No matter what the score is, Luc never gives up, and that gives our team energy.”
Defenseman Jon Christenson said he’s encouraged by the team’s improving puck movement and communication on offense.
“We created a lot more offense than we did in the first game against them,” he said. “Some of our guys haven’t played at this level before, so being able to work a plan and create scoring opportunities is a huge plus. We’re steadily making improvements; it’s just a matter of time.”
Santa Clara added two more goals in the third period to secure the win. SRJC stayed upbeat and motivated despite the deficit.
Christenson also credited Krombholz for his dedication to the program on and off the ice.
“Kai’s an absolute beast,” Christenson said. “He gives 110% every single time and does so much behind the scenes to keep the team going.”
Berry said the home crowd kept the team’s spirits up despite the loss.
“Nothing is more special than the home crowd here,” he said. “At Snoopy’s, it’s special.”
Defenseman Owen Hamblin said the team is ready to regroup. “I think we were pretty lackadaisical on some plays,” he said. “If we get after the puck and play harder, we’ll make a big improvement.”
The Polar Bears aim to rebound when they host UC Santa Cruz at Snoopy’s Home Ice Oct. 11.
