MEN'S HOCKEY

This article was written by Sports Information Intern Kayleigh Shappy, a senior at Norwich University.  

NORTHFIELD, Vt. - Over the past several years, Norwich hockey has been known for having exceptional players mind the net.  Goalies such as Randy Hevey, Kevin Schieve, Mike Boudreau and Chance Gieni played the most crucial role in the Cadets' success in recent seasons. Goaltending is one of the most demanding positions to play and no player has stepped up to the task like Ryan Klingensmith.

Klingensmith, a junior from Morton, Pa., has blossomed between the pipes over the last three seasons. A former walk-on to the Cadets, he joined the team when they were in need of a third goaltender. Although he accepted the challenge, Klingensmith saw very limited action during his freshman season.

"Klinger has always had a great attitude throughout his years here," says assistant team captain Rico Piatelli. "Early on, he wasn't getting much playing time, but he was constantly trying to improve. He always works hard, and often takes extra shots after practice."

As a junior, Klingensmith has stepped into a less traditional role as a team leader. 

"Klinger leads by example," adds team captain C.J. Viso. "He is a rather quiet guy, but when you look back at him between the pipes you know he is always prepared to play and lead our team." 

On the ice, many of his teammates feel that Klingensmith's strengths are his positional play and mental toughness. Klingensmith makes up for his lack of size with his athleticism. His positioning and ability to make the initial save along with returning for a rebound is what makes him successful. His ability to remain calm in pressure situations is reassuring to the rest of the players.

"As a goalie, it is very important to stay calm and Ryan does a great job of doing that," says assistant team captain Nikita Kashirsky. "He never thinks twice about letting one or two past him. He concentrates on the next save and how to help us win games."

Along with balancing his time with the hockey team, Klingensmith is a member of the Corps of Cadets and is also a Nursing major. With such a demanding academic and athletic schedule, Klingensmith is an exemplar student-athlete.

As for this season, Klingensmith has spent the majority of the time in net, but has shared minutes with fellow junior David Thompson. He has posted an 11-5-4 record with a .911 save percentage and a 2.12 goals-against average. He has also recorded two shutouts.  Klingensmith and the rest of the Cadets return to action this weekend when they host NESCAC foes Colby and Bowdoin.