Rensselaer Offers Varsity Hockey for First Time

The Rensselaer City School District is proud to offer Boys Ice Hockey as an athletic offering this year! Two of our students, Liam Darby ‘28 and Owen Darby ‘28 will be joining the Hawks Hockey Club, a combined team that has been a part of the Section 2 hockey scene for many years.

“Being able to merge with schools like Niskayuna is an amazing opportunity for my brother and me. I see it as a great way to show what Rensselaer has to offer with their student athletes and how we can compete at the higher levels,” Owen says.

The Darby twins have been playing hockey since they were three years old. During their time playing for the Schenectady Chargers AA team, they developed a love for the sport. Now, they have a chance to represent Rensselaer on the ice. 

“I wanted to represent RCSD and wear the Hawks jersey because I love competing at high level in Section 2 and showing my pride for my school,” says Liam.

Rensselaer Athletic Director Bill Spath says the program is a great addition to the department. 

“Joining the hockey merger will bring new opportunities for students to try a new sport and allow students who are already participating at the younger levels to continue playing while still being students at Rensselaer High School. We are excited for this new opportunity and happy that our current students will be able to play this season. I am looking forward to seeing them on the ice.”

Our Rams will join students from Niskayuna, Mechanicville, Schoharie, Greater Amsterdam, and Broadalbin-Perth to make up the Hawks in 2026-27. Last season, the Hawks went 11-10 with a 7-7 record in Section 2, earning the 5 seed in the playoffs. 

The team’s first scrimmage is against Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake/Ballston Spa on November 24th. Home games will be played at the M&T Bank Center in Schenectady, the home of Union College.