Auburn, ME - Last year, the CM hockey team finished their season with a record of 5-8-1. The team struggled to find any rhythm as they dealt with the impacts of COVID on their schedule and within the team. Fast forward a year and the returning players are out to prove they have the talent and chemistry to make a big splash in the ACHA and NECHA conference. One of those returning players is captain, Noah Buiniskas.
Buiniskas, who is half way through his third year as a Mustang, knew that CM was the right fit. "Everyone is just so friendly. The teachers make you feel like you matter and I think that is huge," add Buiniskas. Athletics here have always played a huge role in the day-to-day. Head Athletic Director, Dave Gonyea, wants this to feel like a Division 1 program from the facilities down to what is offered for the athletes. Noah agrees that it feels like it and the dedication is similar to that of a Division 1 school as he is with his teammates six to seven days a week.
Before the school year began, the athletic department made the announcement that the hockey team had moved into full member status in the NECHA. Now with the ability to make playoffs, the hockey team has a little extra motivation going into each game. And the team is certainly rolling as they entered the break with an overall record of 10-1 and a conference record of 8-1. Key to the turnaround for the Mustangs has been the leadership of Buiniskas and the other team captains. Head Coach Jordy Knoren shares, "Noah is a player who does the little things. He understands his role and executes it with high level. He understands the game of hockey and leads by example with bringing a team first mentality to the rink every day!" Currently, his role on the team as a third year assistant captain is on the 4th line. Noah states that, "It's kind of an energizer line. We play when we need a jolt. I also play on the power play as a net front guy, trying to screen the goalie and collecting pucks in the corner." Buiniskas has experienced many special moments as a Mustang. However his favorite moment so far is seeing the hockey team turn from a rebuilder year after year to now being 10-1 and nationally ranked. "I couldn't be happier with the dedication my team has put in thus far," commented Buiniskas.
Knowing that this will be his last year playing hockey and attending CM, Buiniskas just wants to soak it all in and enjoy the ride and reflect on all the great memories playing CM Hockey. We know that we are going to miss him on the ice and in the hallways at CM, but the focus now is competing this season and keep their eyes on the prize. The Mustangs are definitely making some noise on the ice and they are looking forward to a playoff push as they return for the Spring semester.
