The Naperville North Huskies varsity hockey team defeated the Naperville Central Redhawks for the second time this season in a crosstown battle Friday night.

The Naperville North Huskies (27-8-2) defeated the Naperville Central Redhawks by a score of 5-3. 

The Huskies started off strong in the first period with two goals scored by freshman Charlie Szymczak and senior Ithan DeLorenzo. DeLorenzo believes that their team’s connection created the early lead. 

“Even before the game, there was an amazing bond and everyone was ready to give it their all,” DeLorenzo said. 

Although the Huskies scored twice in the first period, the Redhawks were able to answer back with a goal of their own. The Redhawks were also able to tally one goal in the second and one in the third. These goals did not fear the huskies. Junior Sean Denker believes his team stepped up in the third period and gave it their all to win against a tough Redhawk team. 

“I feel like the effort really wasn’t all there in the first two periods but in the third we really brought it back, we pounded them in their own zone and really amped up the intensity in the third period,” Denker said. 

The Huskies have been extremely close since the cancellation of their season last spring. They were able to do outdoor socially distanced workouts and they built stronger bonds within the team. Head Coach William Driscoll notices the strong camaraderie among the team.

“In a year when so many students are feeling socially isolated, it is nice that hockey can bring them together,” Driscoll said. 

The Huskies will continue their season Tuesday, March 2 against Waubonsie Valley at All Seasons Ice Arena. The puck is scheduled to drop at 8:30 P.M.