They are essential to the success of a hockey team: steady, stay-at-home defensemen.

That is what freshman Travis Wight has been for the University of Maine’s Black Bears this season.

He has four assists and seven shots on goal in 26 games, but, more importantly, he is plus-10.

Players are awarded a plus-one if they are on the ice for an even-strength goal and a minus-one if the opponent scores.

“He has been very consistent,” said Maine coach Tim Whitehead. “He’s a fierce competitor and he’s very solid defensively. He keeps it very simple with the puck. He rarely turns it over.

“He’s physical and, with his mobility, he can keep pace with any of the other team’s fastest players. His skating really allows him to gain the red line a lot easier than other guys.”

Wight and his mates, ranked second in both national polls, will have their hands full with the explosive No. 6 Boston College Eagles Friday night.

“They’re probably the fastest team we’ve played this season,” said Wight. “All of their forwards have speed, and if you don’t cover them [closely], they’ll beat you.”

Wight said he has been pleased with his progress.

“At first, I didn’t really know if I’d be playing at all this season or how much I’d be playing,” said Wight. “I’m really happy that I’ve gotten to play as much as I have.”

In recent games, Wight has been rushing the puck a little more and that has resulted from an infusion of confidence.

“At first, I was kind of timid to get in there. I just concentrated on defense. But I’m feeling a lot more comfortable with my defensive play, so I try to jump into the offense a bit more,” said Wight.

The 5-foot-10, 187-pound native of Fannystelle, Manitoba, said defense partner Cliff Loya has played a major role in his development.

“He’s one of the big reasons I’m feeling more comfortable. He talks to me all the time: on the bench, at practice, after practice. He has helped me out a whole lot. I pretty much know what he’s going to do and what he wants me to do,” said Wight.

Wight said adapting to the speed of opposing forwards has been the biggest adjustment.

One of those forwards will be BC captain and scoring leader Ben Eaves.

“Once he has the puck, you have to watch him or he’ll burn you,” said Wight.

Eaves said he is looking forward to the challenge.

“This is a huge game for us because they beat us and tied us down here earlier this year,” said Eaves. “Both teams really like to get it going offensively. We’ve got to bring it to their defensemen more than they bring it to ours. Both teams are pretty solid up and down the lineup. In that building, if they get momentum and the crowd gets behind them, it’s tough to grab the momentum back. Hopefully, we’ll take it to them early and take the crowd out of it.

“It’s always a lot of fun to play there. There’s a great atmosphere. I was glad to hear they haven’t lost there in 28 games because that makes it even more of a challenge for us.”