The 1999-2000 Catholic Central (CC) Shamrock Hockey team was described by Bill Khan of the Flint Journal: “There are now three divisions in the high school hockey state tournament. Catholic Central is in a class of its own.” All year, the top-rated Shamrocks used a fast-paced control style to complete back-to-back state titles. CC’s record for the year was 26-2 and 55-3-1 over the last two seasons.
The road to the state title was not easy. It included wins over several formidable opponents. The Shamrock defense was not as deep as the previous year’s, but the backline developed into a highly effective unit through hard work and dedication. Coach Gordy St. John stated, “We started off-ice training early in the summer and didn’t stop until our goal was achieved.”
The seniors' leadership, particularly captains David Moss, Brandon Kaleniecki, and Ryan Yost, was essential throughout the season, especially in the Michigan High School Athletic Association State Championship Tournament.
In the state championship game, CC overpowered the Alpena Wildcats 5-2 in front of 4,100 fans at Flint’s IMA Arena. Alpena battled some of the best teams in the state, but Coach Chris Limback said he’s seen nothing like the Shamrocks. “They are two steps above everyone in the state.” Brian Willians scored two power-play goals, Brandon Kaleniecki and Joe Moreau had goals, and David Moss had a goal and an assist. Jared Ross and Brett John added assists, and CC goalie Ben Dunne made 15 saves as CC outshot Alpena 31-15.
The team had several players who played on in D1 or D3, two future NHL pros, David Moss and Jared Ross, and future University of Michigan Captain and CC Head Coach Brandon Kaleniecki.
Front Row L to R: Sean Genrich, Brian Williams (All-State), Joe Moreau, Andrew McCoy, Dave Moss (All-State Dream Team), Brandon Kaleniecki (MIHL MVP, All-State), Ryan Yost (All-State), Ben Dunne (All-State), Jim Spiewak, Rick Buttery, Joe Hillebrand (All-State).
Back Row L to R: Student manager Konrad Styka, General Manager Mike Giordano, Derek Genrich, Student Manager Shaun O’Connor, Eric Reinhardt, Mike McLean, Daryl Bridges, John Bowers, Ryan Lasecki, Andrew Eggert, Jeff Davis, Brett Regulski, Jason MacDonald, Tim Rybinski, Jared Ross Eric Giosa, Brett John, John Perkovich, Mike Ratigan, Asst, Coach Todd Johnson ‘87, Asst. Coach Matt Giordano ‘96, Head Coach Gordon St. John.
Not Pictured: Asst. Coach Brian Morrison ’77.
