By Joseph Robin

SEWELL, N.J. - Looking to build off of last season's unexpected run to the Elite Eight in the National Championships, the Yeshiva University roller hockey team took to the rink on Sunday to start off the team's third season of existence. The Maccabees swept the opening weekend for the third straight year as they kicked off the campaign, 3-0.

After a Saturday night trek to Sewell, NJ, the team woke up bright and early to start off a set of three games at 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 12:00 p.m. against Saint Joseph's University, University of Delaware, and Drexel University, respectively. With a lot of roster turnover for the coming season, many questioned Yeshiva's chances.

The Macs hit the ground running in the opener as they jumped the Saint Joseph's Hawks to take a 7-1 lead partway through the second. Senior Ari Drazin lead the way with four goals while junior Moshe Genuth contributed with a hat trick of his own. First year student Matthew Carl notched his first career tally as well, to help build the lead.

The Hawks refused to back down and surged late into the third period, bringing the deficit to within one goal. However, the Macs were able to shut the door when it mattered and took the season opener by the score of 10-8. 

The Macs benefited from a tardy Delaware club and took a 1-0 forfeit in the second game and went into the matchup with Drexel with a much needed rest.

The Maccabees offensive explosion continued as they took the final game by the score of 7-3. YU's power play was on firing on all cylinders, going 3-7 on the man advantage. Senior Jake Ratzker scored three goals and had two assists. Goaltender Joseph Robin stopped 29 of 32 shots to hold down the fort. 

Yeshiva is now tied with Northeastern University at the top the Division 2 standings after the first week of play. The Macs are back in action in two weeks as they take on Hofstra on November 4th at 10:00 p.m. in Bethpage, N.Y.

To keep up with the team this season, you can find them on Facebook (Yeshiva University Roller Hockey), Twitter (@YURollerHockey), Snapchat (yurollerhockey), and instagram (yurollerhockey).