Ice hockey had an impressive showing in the preseason Frederick Cup this weekend, placing second overall. The team advanced through three rounds of play before falling 4–3 to a coalition of Frederick County players in the championship game.

The Vikings played four games total, facing Oakdale High School, Urbana High school and a Frederick Co-Op team twice.

In their first game, the Vikes tied 6–6 against the Frederick Co-Op team, made up of players from multiple county schools which were unable to field a full team.

The Vikings next overcame Oakdale High School in a 7–2 victory, and then defeated Urbana by the same score to advance to the finals.

In the championship game, the Vikings again took the ice against the Frederick Co-Op team, but lost in a close game that ended 4–3.

“We had a great tournament, but unfortunately we had some injuries and penalties which hindered us in the championship game,” team co-captain Ben Barrett said.

The Vikings now turn towards the beginning of the regular season on Friday, where they will face defending state champion Churchill. Coming off of this weekend’s performance, the Vikings feel prepared for the challenge.

“We have a lot of chemistry both on and off the ice, and it definitely showed over the weekend,” Barrett said. “Overall, we’re primed for a really strong season.”