Adam Orsulak wasn't happy with the start or middle of his season, but he always has the conclusion. The latter, too, can have the biggest consequences.

Through his team's first 14 games in the Lehigh Valley Scholastic Hockey League, the senior Northampton goaltender had a 7-5-1 mark with a 4.23 goals against average. Over this past two seasons, Orsulak had been stellar in the nets, playing a major role in the Kids' drive in the playoffs the past three seasons.

Yet, Orsulak believes he has a chance to redeem himself in the upcoming playoffs as well as his team that has gotten off to an uncharacteristically start.

"It hasn't been my best year," offered Orsulak. "I'm not as good as I would like to be. It hasn't been a terrible season, but I know I can do better. I just don't know what it is.

"It has been similar with our team. We have been playing better, but this isn't our usual season. But with the playoffs getting close, I know we'll turn it up."

His coach has appreciated his efforts.

"Adam (Orsulak) hasn't has the best support in front of him this year," said Kids' head coach Brian Ruff. "He hasn't been happy with his play, but he been very steady for us over the years. When he is on, he definitely is one of the best and steadiest goalies in the league."

Orsulak did note that this is his first year playing travel hockey, providing a schedule with anywhere from two to three games and practices a week between the two teams.

"It's been different in that aspect as I've been busier than normal," he said. "Playing travel hockey has been a challenge, but I have enjoyed it."

Since first grade, hockey has been a staple in his life. Orsulak recalled how he began his career as a forward and quickly became a goalie the following season. His father, Robert, who also played the game, helped introduce his son to the game and has encouraged him in many ways through the years, beginning playing at the old Ice Palace in Allentown.

Orsulak began playing in the Northampton program in fourth grade. One of his major highlights was a shout out over Whitehall in his first start in middle school.

"When my dad started me playing hockey, I told him that I wanted to be a goalie," said Orsulak. "I remember watching goalies when I was little and I thought it was a cool position to play. He (his father) made the commitment and bought about $1,000 worth of goalie equipment for me.

"He has always been there for me and has always supported me in every move I have made."

After this season, Orsulak would like to continue his hockey career and plans to attend Northampton Community College where he will begin a career in criminal justice and law enforcement.

He has heard rumblings about the college starting a hockey program next winter. If they don't, Orsulak will likely investigate the possibilities of becoming a goalie coach in the Northampton program.

Whatever the case, Orsulak will pursue the game he loves in the present and future.

"I'd like to keep playing and stay involved," he said. "Hockey has always been a big part of my life. We know we can turn this season around and make a run in the playoffs. I don't want this season to end too quickly."

Instead, he has his sights set on a solid ending after a mediocre start.