(CU Independent graphic/Adam Milner)
Junior goaltender Kevin Litinsky has made a large impact on the men’s club hockey team at the University of Colorado, but it has also made quite an impact on him.
“Playing for CU over the last three years has been the most enjoyable years of hockey that I have had throughout my career,” Litinsky said. “I feel like I have found my niche on the team and in the program.”
Over the past three years, Litinsky has played 69 games and has a total of 13 shutouts. He had five shutouts in this season alone, breaking his personal record for shutouts in a single season.
Junior defenseman Scott Cooley knows that Litinsky has always been capable of such a feat.
“He has a strong dedication and good work ethic,” Cooley said. “Goaltending has become something we don’t really worry about. His ability to steal some rough games is huge for us.”
In 20 games this season Litinsky has a record of 14-5 with the Buffs, finishing the season with a 22-9 record.
Head coach Ken Fikis doesn’t think these coinciding records are accidental.
“This year, he has been the anchor on the team keeping us in games time after time,” Fikis said. “Without him we certainly would not be the number one ranked team in the west. Whatever success we have had this year has been because of his excellent play.”
Cooley said that this talent, along with the relationship he has with Litinsky, adds to the team’s ability to win.
“We have built a strong relationship on the ice,” Cooley said. “We communicate and understand each other so it makes doing both our jobs a lot easier, and I know he has the ability to bail me out when I make a mistake and the same for me with him.”
Litinsky said the relationship between him and his teammates is unique.
“My relationship with my teammates is excellent,” Litinsky said. “I feel that we have a really special group of guys and we have a strong bond. I would put any of my teammates before myself in any situation.”
With next year being his last year, one has to wonder how losing a powerhouse player and close friend will affect the team the following season.
“Let’s hope the team gets some young, new, goaltending talent quick,” Cooley said. “Without Kev, we’ll be hurting back there.”
Fikis said it will be hard to fill Litinsky’s position.
“When he graduates he will leave big shoes to fill and the program will suffer until another Kevin comes along,” Fikis said. “Fortunately we have him for another year and we’ll be a success because of him.”
Yes, one more year left for this goalie, but Litinsky has already set his plans for next year.
“(I want to) win a national championship back-to-back, and just enjoy my last season to the fullest and soak it all in,” Litinsky said.
And where will he be in the future?
“Russia, or owning a sushi shop in Cali,” Cooley said jokingly.
Wherever he ends up, Litinsky knows hockey will remain a part of his life after college.
“I know that I will continue to play hockey as long as I can still walk, whether it be in adult leagues or with my friends and teammates,” Litinsky said.
Fikis said he believes the future holds success for Litinsky.
“I believe Kevin will do what ever he wants to do,” Fikis said. “He will graduate and become a success at what ever he chooses.”
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Kayla Cornett at Kayla.cornett@colorado.edu.
