Although the Suffolk University men’s hockey team did not reach their goals this season, the future of the team looks very bright. The team has a strong group of young players who should contribute heavily the next couple seasons, and one of these talents is Andrew Flynn.

Flynn, a forward, was second on the team with 14 points per game, as he tallied 10 total assists and scored four goals.

Flynn grew up in Stamford, Connecticut, and graduated from Berkshire High School. He chose Suffolk because of its central city location and its business school. Flynn said he enjoyed playing on the hockey team this season, although the team fell short of reaching the tournament.

“This 2010-2011 hockey season has been a rough one and we were not able to make the playoffs this year,” said Flynn. “I would never take this year for granted and I would not trade the time spent on the ice and in the locker room for anything.

“As our team goals fell short, so did mine and I am sure if you asked this question to anyone on any team that does not make the playoffs, they would tell you the only success that matters is the team’s. If that fails, the individual goals for the year will as well.”

Suffolk men’s hockey Coach Chris Glionna said Flynn is always looking for ways to get better.

“What I like most about coaching Andrew is that he wants to improve,” said Glionna. “When he returned this semester he made no excuses for his play in the first semester, he worked harder and made the changes we asked and he is now one of our top players.  He also wants to win and that is the type of player we want here.”

Glionna said Flynn really turned it on this year, especially in the second half of the season.

“Andrew had a great freshman year but he really struggled in the first semester,” said Glionna. “This semester he working very hard and is showing the potential we knew he had.  He was also on our first power play.”

Glionna has high goals for Flynn his last two seasons, and he wants to see him become a leader on and off the ice.

“I also think if he continues to work hard in the gym he could be a high-end player in this league for his last two seasons,” said Glionna.

Flynn said he is looking forward to his junior and senior seasons and has high goals for both of them.

“Lucky enough I am a sophomore and I will remember this year and the input from the seniors: to never take a second for granted because it will be over before you know it,” said Flynn. “First step is to prepare for next year and be ready to secure a home playoff spot and before I graduate I plan to be a part of a Suffolk program that will make it to the [tournament].”