The Cranston-Scituate co-op hockey team is back on the ice this winter and is looking to take another step forward as a program in Division II.

The Falcons were one of the youngest clubs in the division last season but would beat the odds by not only reaching the playoffs but earning a first round win over West Warwick/Exeter-West Greenwich in a big upset.

With nearly the entire roster returning, including senior leaders Justin Drohen and Jared Prior, the Falcons are eager to prove that they are a contender this winter.

“Upsetting West Warwick in the playoffs completely changed the complexion of this offseason with guys getting back into the weight room and back to start the season. It changed the entire mentality of the team and season and they believe the sky is the limit and they can win a championship. They’ve all bought in,” said coach Matt Brannon.

Drohen and Prior have been a key duo for the club since they were freshmen. Between winning a title their first year to experiencing a losing season last year, Brannon will be relying on the pair to use their experience to help the roster continue to develop, as it still is largely made up of underclassmen.

“Our seniors have had some experience, they’ve seen the highest of highs and lowest of lows. They’ve all been great and getting the new kids on board. They’ve been great leaders and have been selling the program. They want to turn it around and leave it the way it was when they started,” said Brannon.

Another key piece this season will be senior goalie Jaedon Case, who returns to net for his second year as the full-time starter. Case improved as last season wore on and saved his best for last when he racked up 27 stops in the playoff win.

“He knows what to expect with the full year under his belt and we are going to go as far as he takes us. You don’t want to put too much pressure on him but it starts from the back. Hopefully getting the playoff win will help,” Brannon said.

The Falcons hosted St. Ray’s on opening night last Saturday and fell in a tough 3-2 decision. Harry Woloohojian and Devin DeAngelis scored while Drohen recorded two assists. Case stopped 24 of 26 shots faced.

“It was just one of those nights where we weren’t getting puck luck, things just weren’t going our way. We were a little bit rusty but I think we’ll be OK. We have the group back this year and they’re ready to go,” said Brannon.