Tigers hockey honors their seniors

Amherst Central hockey honored its seniors prior to the team's game with Lancaster on Saturday. Pictured from left, coach Rich Crozier, and seniors Kevin Kelley, Nathan Boyar, Chris Scamurra, David Moore, Andrew Lumberg, and Thom Bergman; missing from photo - Joe McCann.

Amherst Central hockey held its annual senior recognition ceremony prior to their game against Lancaster on Saturday.

The 2006-07 Tigers' roster has seven seniors who have represented their team proudly.

"If there is one word that can describe this year's senior class it is perseverance," said Tigers coach Rich Crozier. "All seven players have played a unique role in overcoming obstacles that they have encountered throughout their high school hockey careers. Their hard work and dedication to the program have set a standard for the younger members of the Tigers hockey program to follow."

David Moore has been one of the top defensemen for the Tigers for the past three seasons.

"David's presence on and off the ice will be truly missed," said Crozier.

A stay at home defenseman for his first two seasons, Moore has led the Tigers this season with an offensive outbreak. He currently leads this year's Tiger's squad in goals (seven) and points (14).

"Off the ice, David's quiet and business-like demeanor has set the bar for the younger players on this team," added Crozier. "I've coached David in more than 100 games through high school and our midget travel team. I am extremely proud, not only of the outstanding hockey player he has developed into, but what a genuine person he is. In my mind, he exemplifies what I want all my hockey players to strive for."

Nathan Boyar has played defense for the Tigers for the past two seasons.

"Nate will be remembered for the dedication to the program and perseverance to improve on the ice," said Crozier.

Boyar ends his career for the Tigers appearing in over 30 games.

Joe McCann is in his first season with the Tigers.

"Joe exemplifies the saying 'never give up'," added Crozier. "Battling through injuries all season long, Joe has made a positive presence on and off the ice."

McCann will especially be remembered this season for his game-winning goal to beat Geneseo with two minutes remaining in the game.

Andrew Lumberg is a first-year varsity member.

"Andrew has been a welcomed addition to this year's team," said Crozier. "Always one of the first on the ice in practice, Andrew has worked extremely hard and made some nice improvements."

Kevin Kelley has been a varsity player for two seasons.

"Kevin is one of the most improved players on this year's team," said Crozier. "His perseverance and commitment to the team has paid off this season with a bigger role and more playing time."

Kelley scored one of the biggest goals for the Tigers this season when he tied the game against South Glens Falls with 45 seconds remaining in the game.

Chris Scamurra has been rostered for the Tigers for two seasons.

"Chris will also be remembered for overcoming adversity," said Crozier.

A season ending leg injury prevented Scamurra from competing in his junior season.

"Chris worked extremely hard and was able to return this season," added Crozier. One of the fastest players on this year's team, Scamurra currently is fourth on the team in points and goals.

Thom Bergman, the Tigers captain this season, has played defense for the Tigers for two years. Bergman has been an excellent stay at home defenseman for Crozier's team.

"Last year's most improved player, Thom is one of our best and most relied upon players this season," said Crozier. "Thom will be remembered as a role-model for his outstanding leadership on and off the ice."

Crozier said he is fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with these seven young men. "

When you ask seventeen and eighteen-year olds to put the crest on their jersey ahead of their friends and social life that is not an easy thing for them to commit to," said Crozier. "The obstacles that this team faces game in and game out in this league are extremely difficult I would venture to say that not a lot of seniors could have handled this situation with the dignity and maturity that they have shown. Given the adversity that they have persevered through, they may be more prepared for life than any other seniors in this entire league. I'm proud to be their coach."