West Hartford’s Conard High School boys hockey team is looking to defend its Division III state championship title.

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Conard vs. Wethersfield boys hockey. Dec. 22, 2025. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

By Cole Schweiger

A strong defensive effort and heavy shot volume weren’t enough for Conard boys hockey in its home opener, as the Red Wolves were shut out 1-0 by Wethersfield boys hockey on Monday night, Dec. 22.

Wethersfield junior goaltender Nathan Rydecki delivered a standout performance, stopping all 45 shots he faced to earn the shutout. Conard controlled long stretches of play and consistently put pucks on net, but was unable to convert its scoring chances despite sustained offensive pressure.

Conard vs. Wethersfield boys hockey. Dec. 22, 2025. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

The lone goal of the game came from the blue line, where a Wethersfield shot slipped through traffic and beat the Conard goalie on the right side. Aside from that moment, Conard’s defense was solid, limiting second chances and keeping the Eagles from generating much offense.

Conard entered the season with high expectations after winning the Division III state championship in back-to-back seasons, but the Red Wolves have been moved up to Division II this winter. Tuesday’s loss dropped Conard to 0-2 on the season as it continues to adjust to tougher competition.

Conard vs. Wethersfield boys hockey. Dec. 22, 2025. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

Despite the result, the home opener showed promise for the Red Wolves, who matched Wethersfield’s physicality and pace while controlling the shot count.

The two teams will meet again before the end of the month as Conard heads on the road to Wethersfield on Tuesday, Dec. 30 to close out the home-and-home series, looking to turn strong defensive play and offensive pressure into its first win of the season.

Conard vs. Wethersfield boys hockey. Dec. 22, 2025. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

Conard vs. Wethersfield boys hockey. Dec. 22, 2025. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

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