Tag: Alex Coviello

Boys Hockey: Players to Watch in 2022-2023

2022-2023 Boys Hockey Players to Watch
King Philip’s James Boldy is coming off a strong season and will be a player to keep an eye on this winter. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)

By HockomockSports.com Staff

Player are listed alphabetically

2022-2023 Boys Hockey Players to Watch

Mark Ayvazyan, Senior – North Attleboro

North Attleboro’s offense was potent at times last year, scoring three or more goals in 10 games but more than half of them are gone with the graduation of a strong senior class. One of the key pieces back this season is senior forward Mark Ayvazyan, who was third on the team in scoring and eighth overall in the Hockomock League during the regular season. Ayvazyan tied for fifth in the Hock in goals last year, finishing with 13 goals and 12 assists. He’s a creative forward that has a knack for finding the back of the net. The Rocketeers will try to improve on their goal output this year as they make the switch to the Kelley-Rex division and Ayvazyan will be a big part of that.

2022-2023 Boys Hockey Players to Watch

James Boldy, Senior – King Philip

King Philip starts a new chapter in program history under new head coach Toby Carlow, who will be leaning heavily on his more experienced players as the Warriors try to incorporate a strong group of sophomores and freshmen. One of those players is senior James Boldy, a talented winger who has a lot of experience for the Warriors after logging a lot of minutes over the past two seasons. He’s had double-digit points in each of the last two seasons, including seven goals and 10 assists a year ago. With their top three point producers from last year gone from the lineup, Boldy’s leadership will be key.










Charlie Caputo, Senior – Stoughton/Brockton

Stoughton is coming off its best season in over a decade that included a long-awaited return to the postseason, and a playoff win. Legendary head coach Dan Mark has hopes for a repeat performance, and for good reason as he returns a talented group. That group includes their leading point producer from a year ago in senior Charlie Caputo, who registered 13 goals and 14 assists on the season. He’ll be joined by senior Sean Farley (25 points), junior Colby Strunk (21 points), who had four goals in Stoughton’s season-opening win over Attleboro, and sophomore Cooper Lehman (10 points). Although Stoughton/Brockton isn’t technically competing in the Hock again this season, they are facing off against roughly half of the league, and Caputo is a player they will have to keep an eye on.

2022-2023 Boys Hockey Players to Watch

Alex Coviello, Senior – Foxboro

Foxboro senior Alex Coviello is one of the most experienced players in the league as he enters his fourth year with Foxboro. One of two four-year players for the Warriors, Coviello’s leadership both on and off of the ice will be key for first-year head coach Eric Galanti. Although he’s a defenseman, and a good one at that, expect him to have a big part in the Warriors’ offense this season. He’s confident with the puck on his stick and has a quick release from the blue line; he’s off to a great start this season with two goals in Foxboro’s 4-1 win over Attleboro. As the Warriors make a push to return to the postseason with a team heavy on underclassmen, Coviello and the rest of the seniors and upperclassmen will play a vital role.




Colin Davis, Sophomore – Canton

It’s never easy for a freshman to step into a team that has state title aspirations, let alone stepping in between the pipes to become the starting goalie. Davis never looked like a freshman last season, jumping in with both feet and playing like someone with years of varsity experience. He stopped 93 percent of the shots he faced and was a big factor in Canton allowing only 37 goals in 26 games. In 11 regular season games, Davis allowed less than a goal per game and then stepped up in big moments during the playoff run, including clutch saves to deny Plymouth North and Gloucester comeback bids. Strong in the crease with solid positioning, Davis rarely looked bothered in goal. He always felt like he was in the right spot to make every stop. Davis adds quick reflexes and good communication with his defensemen and is already one of the best shot stoppers in the league. Canton has won every Davenport division title and the Bulldogs will be heavy favorites to continue that run this season, with Davis providing the foundation on which to build the team’s strong defense.

2022-2023 Boys Hockey Players to Watch

Ryan DeGirolamo, Senior – Mansfield

Mansfield graduated its top six forwards, so coming into the new season the Hornets will need a considerably more experienced defensive unit to keep things tight and keep scores close while the new forwards get acclimated. DeGirolamo is one of the leaders on the blue line and one of the most physical defensemen in the Hock. He takes some of the skills that make him a standout on the football field to be tough to beat on the ice. DeGirolamo reads attacks well, closes with speed, and is willing to throw his body into the corners to chase down a loose puck or keep an opposing forward away from the crease. A strong presence on the penalty kill, especially in those battles in front of goal, and someone who can step up with a big blast from the point, the key for DeGirolamo (and Mansfield in general) is staying out of the box. The Hornets will play in the Davenport for the first time this season and if Mansfield wants to throw a shock into the league title race then DeGirolamo and the defense will be leading the way.

Andrew Livingstone, Junior – Oliver Ames

Oliver Ames junior Andrew Livingstone had a standout year on the ice for the Tigers, making an immediate impact as a sophomore. He actually led the team in scoring with 12 goals and eight assists for a team-high 20 points. After having a relatively young and inexperienced group last year, the Tigers have nearly its entire lineup back and will be looking to make a push toward the tournament. Livingstone will be a big part of that as he’s a crafty forward with a lot of confidence when he has the puck. He’s a good decision-maker and is willing to find an open teammate as seen by his balance in points last year. His speed allows him not only to be a menace on the forecheck but also dangerous with the puck on his stick as he attacks opposing defenses.




Ben Paterson, Junior – Franklin

Last year’s sophomore class turned out to be prolific in front of goal and Paterson was one of the players that had a breakout performance in 2021-22. Even facing some of the state’s top teams, Paterson was second on the team in points (seventh-best in the league) with 10 goals and 14 assists. He has the skills on the puck to find little spaces in the opposition defense and the willingness to go into the corners and battle to keep possessions alive, which is a key component of returning head coach Chris Spillane’s system. The desire to get to the crease and the ability to pick the top corner from outside the face-off dot makes Paterson a constant thorn in the opposition’s side. His speed in the transition and quick release shot make him a threat as soon as he gets to the blue line. The Panthers have high expectations, as always, and the deep class of forwards that broke into the lineup last season could provide the firepower to keep Franklin atop the Kelley-Rex division.

2022-2023 Boys Hockey Players to Watch

Colton Scheralis, Senior – Taunton

Taunton has one of the youngest rosters in program history, so Scheralis will need to produce on the ice and provide much-needed leadership. He scored three goals and recorded 10 assists as a play-making defenseman last season, but his numbers should jump up this winter as he’ll start the year back at forward. Skillful with the puck and with great vision, Scheralis could track back into the defensive zone and fire a three-line pass that would spring the Tigers into a quick transition down the other end. That experience in defense will be critical this year, as Scheralis is going to be counted on in all three zones and probably to carry a lot of ice time. Taunton has built momentum in recent seasons, becoming a regular in the state tournament and producing some stunning upsets in league play and Scheralis will hope to continue pushing the program forward even with a squad loaded with underclassmen.

2022-2023 Boys Hockey Players to Watch

Brendan Tourgee, Junior – Canton

Tourgee was a breakout star for the Bulldogs last season. As a sophomore, he jumped onto the top line and provided 11 goals and 16 assists. With an array of moves in the attacking zone, a strong, accurate shot, and a willingness to embrace physicality, Tourgee has a complete game and the potential to be one of the top forwards in the state. He was able to weave through defenses or skate right through them to create chances for himself and his directness opened space for teammates to get good looks at goal. Tourgee’s vision in all three zones means that he is always a danger to pick out a pass that will spring the Bulldogs into the attack. Canton’s offense draws a ton of attention every season and Tourgee is the latest in a long line of forwards that will be expected to produce the firepower to keep the Bulldogs contenders in Div. 2.

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview Canton boys hockey Brendan Tourgee
Canton junior Brendan Tourgee and the rest of the Bulldogs are aiming to get back to the TD Garden. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)

By HockomockSports.com Staff

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Attleboro

2021-2022 Record: 0-15-0
2021-2022 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Gary Warren
Last season is not one to remember for Attleboro. The Bombardiers finished winless and had only eight goals in 18 games. New head coach Gary Warren will hope to find more firepower in front of goal and more depth with three forward lines and three defensive pairings as Attleboro tries to get back into the mix for a tournament berth.

Seniors Owen Parker and Colin Flynn will be the leaders on the top line with eighth grader Bryan Capone getting his first taste of varsity hockey. Sophomore Nathan Conroy will center the second line with senior Mike Lachance and junior Nick Fernandes on the wings. Eighth-grader Andrew Bessette will center the third line for the Bombardiers, joining up with sophomores Austin Bessette and Jack Moran.

Defensively, Attleboro will also lean on youth. Sophomores Alex Jarousky and Brody Shaw will partner on one line, eighth graders Beckett Stone and Cam Harrison will be a second partnership, and sophomore Lucas Devonis teaming up with senior Luke Logan. Junior Bradley Lehtonen and freshman Joey Santos will also see time on the blue line this season. After graduating four-year starter Nick Piazza, Attleboro will turn to junior Julien Horton and eighth grader Jacob Westwater between the pipes.

“Our success this season will hinge on good senior leadership, along with our younger players building confidence in their game,” Warren said. “We are a young, inexperienced team that hopefully will get better game after game.”

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Canton

2021-2022 Record: 22-3-1 (D2 State Finalists)
2021-2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Final
Coach: Brian Shuman
Only one team has ever won the Davenport division boys hockey title and, despite graduating 14 seniors off last year’s roster, Canton looks well-positioned to extend that run for another winter. After reaching the Div. 2 state title game for the third straight season, the Bulldogs will be incorporating a lot of new faces and young players (five freshmen and three sophomores) into this year’s roster to try and stay among the top teams in the state.

While there are several new players that will be getting time this year, Canton does return its top two scorers from last year. Senior AJ Thomas had a great playoff run to help the Bulldogs get back to the TD Garden and junior Brendan Tourgee was a standout as a sophomore with his combination of stick skills and strength. Juniors Pat Drury, Colin Blake, and Brian Middleton also saw plenty of ice time as sophomores and came through with some big goals during the season, while senior Jack Digirolamo adds some physicality in the attacking zone.

Canton always gets attention for its scoring punch, but its strength on the blue line has been one of the main reasons for its sustained success. Senior Leo Owens will start the season on the sidelines with an injury, so other players are going to need to step in while he gets healthy. Senior James Young and junior Matt Anderson, who scored the overtime winner in the season opener, will get plenty of ice time. Sophomore Colin Davis should provide the defense with plenty of confidence after a stellar rookie campaign between the pipes. He looked unflappable during Canton’s run to the final and senior Carson Eagles is a more than dependable backup in goal.

“As always, strong team defense and the depth to play four lines and six defense pairs will determine whether or not we can make a run for the league title and/or the playoffs this year,” said Canton coach Brian Shuman.







2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Foxboro

2021-2022 Record: 10-11-0
2021-2022 Finish: Reached Div. 3 Round of 32
Coach: Eric Galanti
Foxboro has a new head coach this season but it’s a familiar face as Eric Galanti steps in after five years on the bench as an assistant coach for the program. After graduating nine seniors from last year that accounted for a lot of production and ice time, the Warriors are looking for some new names to step up.

Albeit young, Foxboro has a strong core of returners from last year’s squad that had 10 wins and scored 70 goals. Senior Henry Diamond, who plays on the right wing, spearheads a relatively young forward group that includes returners Connor Hayers (left wing) and Luigi Muttart (left wing), both juniors, as well as sophomores Ryan Wood, Dan Jacobs — both centers — and, Finlay Campbell. Senior Jake DeMaino and sophomores Brendan LaCroix, Will Groves, and Connor Reardon bolster the offense. Freshman Michael Ruo and Owen McAuliffe are looking to make an impact right away.

Defense and goaltending will be a strength for Galanti and the Warriors this season. Senior Alex Coviello is a seasoned veteran that will anchor the blue line for Foxboro, joined by junior Tommy Devlin and a handful of sophomores who already have varsity experience including Tom Watts, Evan Paluzzi, Leo Campbell, and Connor Reardon. In net, Galanti has some veteran options with senior Peter Souaiden and junior Trevor Marder as options.

“We have a solid defense and great net minding that will allow a sophomore-heavy team to work toward an offense to match,” Galanti said.

Franklin

2021-2022 Record: 14-9-0 (Kelley-Rex division champions)
2021-2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Sweet 16
Coach: Chris Spillane
A very familiar face has made his return to the bench for Franklin this season, as longtime coach Chris Spillane, who stepped away in 2019, is back in charge of the program. The Panthers have won 11 straight league titles and been a fixture in the Div. 1 state tournament and they boast a strong attacking lineup this season that will be looking to continue its control of the Kelley-Rex division.

Up front, Franklin will be boosted by the return of seniors Ben Jarosz and Ryan Sicchio, who combined for 15 goals and 23 assists last year. Classmate Tommy Balducci will join them on the top line. Last year’s sophomore class was prolific in front of goal and, with a year of valuable experience, looks ready to be even more dynamic this season. Juniors Anthony Lampasona (six goals and 13 assists) and Ben Paterson (10 goals and 14 assists) will lead the way along with classmates Dylan McEvoy and Dan Daley. Sophomore Carter Balducci is a newcomer to look out for in attack.

Four players return on the blue line to give Franklin solid experience in the defensive zone. Seniors Liam O’Rielly, Aiden Kuykendall, and Lucas Sheehan will be joined by junior Dylan Marchand, who had an impressive sophomore season in defense. Sophomore Vinnie Pasquarosa should also see time on the back end. Goalie depth will be a strength for the Panthers this year, with sophomore Jack O’Connor returning, sophomore Joe Torraco making the jump from JV, and junior Colby Wagner coming back to the program after playing last year with the Northeast Generals.

“Offensively we will run three lines who all have the ability to score goals,” Spillane said. “The Panthers’ success will depend on our team defense, and how quickly we can understand our defensive systems.”




2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

King Philip

2021-2022 Record: 10-9-3
2021-2022 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 32
Coach: Toby Carlow
King Philip is two years removed from taking a share of the Kelley-Rex division title (joining only the 2011 Mansfield team to win at least a piece of the division crown) and last year the Warriors showed off their potential by giving eventual state champion St. John’s Prep a battle in the opening round of the playoffs. Former Medfield coach Toby Carlow, who won a state title with those Warriors in 2016, take over this season with the intention of elevating these Warriors into one of the state’s top programs.

Carlow will be introducing new systems on both ends of the ice, relying on team speed and structure in the defensive zone to get back into the tournament. One challenge for KP will be replacing standout Brad Guden, who moved to Tabor Academy this season. In the defensive zone, junior Cam Lehan-Allen along with senior Sam Naggar will need to step up to provide leadership at the blue line. Senior Kyle Abbott will help out at the back, as he returns in goal after allowing fewer than two goals per game as a junior.

In addition to Guden, who had 17 points from defense last year, KP also graduated its three top goal scorers from last season, so the forward line will need new faces to step up and consistently find the back of the net. Senior James Boldy is the team’s top returning scorer with seven goals and 10 assists and junior Max Robison adds speed on the wing. Juniors Nate Gartska and Rowan Boulger also saw time as sophomores and provide depth in the forward lines.

“Our goal this year is to establish ourselves as a good solid team in Division 1,” Carlow said. “It’s time for King Philip to step into the upper level of Massachusetts hockey.”

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Mansfield

2021-2022 Record: 7-12-1
2021-2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32
Coach: Mark O’Brien
Mansfield has a lot of turnover to contend with this season, as the Hornets open their first season of Davenport division play. Former assistant Mark O’Brien has taken over as head coach and he takes over a team that will lean on underclassmen to try and find the attacking threat to keep the Hornets in the league title mix and to stay in the tournament mix.

After graduating its top six forwards from last season, Mansfield will be hoping that a host of freshmen and sophomores can step up to the challenge of leading the line this winter. Seniors Cody Gordon, Connor Davey, and Brendan Flynn will provide much-needed leadership in the attacking zone. Sophomores Brendan Vokey, Matthew Tourigney, Matthew Cromack, and Kevin O’Brien and freshmen James Warren, Matt Kelly, Matthew Rabinovich, Liam Wells, and Cody Silva give the Hornets a lot of depth up front but also a lot of untested talent.

The blue line is a very different story. Mansfield’s defense should be a strength this season. Seniors Ryan DeGirolamo and Patrick Gormley return to anchor that end of the ice along with junior Will Cameron and sophomore Declan Foley. Sophomore Thomas Gormley is a newcomer to watch for the Hornets in defense. Freshman Aidan Shea and sophomore Luke McGuire are versatile players who could see time at forward or defense. In goal, Mansfield will have plenty of experience to call upon with senior Chris O’Brien and junior Josh Hussey.

“We have a tremendous group this season and they are committed to the team concept and giving their best effort for each other,” said O’Brien. “We are excited about our talented younger players and confident that our strong nucleus of upperclassmen will lead the way with a focus on team defense.”

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

North Attleboro

2021-2022 Record: 10-11-1
2021-2022 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Sweet 16
Coach: Kyle Heagney
North Attleboro head coach Kyle Heagney begins his second year in charge of the Rocketeers and they are looking to improve on last year’s 10-win season as they join the Kelley-Rex division for the second time in program history.

The Big Red will have to look for some new players to step up as they try to fill the void left by the graduation of a talented senior group, including Nik Kojoian, who led the Hockomock League in scoring with 11 goals and 24 assists last season, and Nick Longa, who was second in the league with 17 goals and tied for fifth overall in points with 26 points. The good news is that Heagney and the Rocketeers have one of the top returning forwards in the league in Mark Ayvazyan, who produced 13 goals and 12 assists in the regular season last year.

North will also look for seniors Brody Gaulin and Jack Dluhy to take on increased roles after netting five goals and two assists last season as well as junior Kaden Burns, who had five goals and one helper last season. Junior Kyle Gruber is back between the pipes after impressing last season.




2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Oliver Ames

2021-2022 Record: 6-11-1
2021-2022 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Jimmy Tierney
Oliver Ames begins a new chapter in program history as they welcome a familiar face as new head coach in Jimmy Tierney, a former player and assistant coach. Tierney was the inaugural HockomockSports Goalie of the Year in 2013 and was a two-team First Team selection during his stellar career with the Tigers.

Now Tierney will look to guide this year’s team back to the success they experienced during his playing days when they reached the South sectional semifinals and finals during his sophomore and junior years. The Tigers have nearly their entire roster back from last year after graduating just two seniors, including senior center Sean McCarthy, who was second on the team with 10 goals and nine assists, and junior Andrew Livingstone, who earned HockomockSports All-Underclassmen Team honors after leading OA with 12 goals and eight assists. The offense will have plenty of depth with seniors Matt Lawson (15 points), Jack Corey (15 points), Daniel Paul, and Jack Perron, who is a team captain for the second year along with McCarthy.

Sophomore Patrick DeLoughrey and freshman Brenden Teehan will look to make an immediate impact on the offensive end. Along the blue line, junior Sean Kearns (three goals, 11 assists) will look to build upon a solid campaign last year when he earned honorable mention for league all star. He’ll be joined by classmates Landon Grothe and Andy Poulos in the defensive group. The Tigers have experience in the net with senior Brandon Burke back between the pipes after playing in 17 games last year.

“Our biggest strength this season will be the team-first mentality our players have,” Tierney said. “The players care a lot about each other and will do what it takes to put the team first. This along with the hard work they are putting in is what will make us successful.”

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Stoughton

2021-2022 Record: 11-11-2
2021-2022 Finish: Reached Div. 3 Round of 32
Coach: Dan Mark
The Stoughton/Brockton co-op team is coming off its most successful season together, and the Black Knights’ best campaign in over a decade after winning 11 games, including a preliminary game in the Division 3 state tournament.

The Black Knights won’t be competing in the Hockomock League again this season as they team up with the Boxers to try and replicate the success from last year. In order to do so, they’ll blend a mix of veteran and younger players as they navigate through their schedule, which will feature games against Hockomock League teams Attleboro, Foxboro, Oliver Ames, and Taunton. Offensively, Stoughton/Brockton returns a strong core led by last year’s leading scorer senior Charlie Caputo, who netted 13 goals along with 14 helpers. Senior Sean Farley added a team-high 16 goals as well as nine assists, while junior Colby Strunk is coming off a 21-point season as a sophomore.

Defensively, longtime head coach Dan Mark will turn to junior Ryan Summers to anchor a relatively inexperienced group. Summers had five goals and seven assists but the Knights lost three defensemen to graduation. In net, juniors Sean McGowan and Dmytro Yakovenko are battling for the starting job.

2022-2023 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Taunton

2021-2022 Record: 7-10-4
2021-2022 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Kris Metea
Taunton comes into the new season with definitely the youngest roster in the league and one of the youngest rosters in program history. Head coach Kris Metea has 35 players in the system this season and 26 of them are sophomores or younger. There is plenty of energy on the ice and plenty of potential, but there may be some growing pains for players getting their first taste of varsity action.

There are a few seniors on the team to provide the Tigers with much-needed experience and leadership. One of those seniors is Colton Scheralis, who will move up from the blue line to the attack at the start of the season. He recorded 13 points as a defenseman last year and should be able to bring his creativity and stick skills to the forward line. Senior Connor McGrath will also give Taunton a scoring punch, after his 13-goal, 13-assist junior campaign. Junior Conner Goranson scored 14 points last year as a sophomore and will be on the top line.

Experience is in short supply in the defensive zone, especially with Scheralis moving forward at the start. Sophomores Travis Cashman and Jon McGrath both saw time as freshmen and will look to build on that first season on the blue line. Sophomore Cam Tomaszycki is back in goal for the Tigers. He was a standout as a freshman, allowing a little more than three goals per game and saving nearly 90 percent of the shots he faced.

“We have a great group of players,” Metea said. “They are excited to go to the rink every day. They love each other and are willing to fight for one another. They make going to the rink a pleasure every day for our coaching staff.”

Saturday’s Schedule & Scoreboard – 02/05/22

Today’s games are listed below.

Boys Basketball
Canton, 36 @ Oliver Ames, 46 – Final – Click here for a recap and photo gallery of this game.

Taunton, 75 @ King Philip, 53 – Final – Click here for a recap and photo gallery of this game.

Girls Basketball
King Philip, 52 @ Taunton, 44 – Final – Emily Sawyer scored 12 of her game-high 18 points in the second half to help the Warrior hold off Taunton and pick up a road win. KP led 13-9 after the first quarter and extended its lead to five points at halftime. The teams were even in the third quarter, so the Warriors kept their five-point edge going into the the fourth. KP outscored Taunton 16-13 over the final eight minutes to secure the victory. Julia Marsden added 12 points for KP and Jackie Bonner had six. Kameron St. Pierre was Taunton’s top scorer with 16 points, including 11 in the second half. Jillian Doherty chipped in with 13 for the Tigers and Cali Melo had nine points before fouling out in the fourth quarter.










Boys Hockey
Stoughton, 1 @ Foxboro, 4 – Final – Foxboro senior Ben Ricketts found the back of the net twice to help the Warriors skate to a non-league win over Stoughton/Brockton. Ricketts scored the first goal for Foxboro and then the third goal, assists from Steve Bridges and Alex Coveillo on the first and Coviello again on his second. Derek Axon’s unassisted shorthanded goal proved to be the game-winner while Matt Grace (from Tom Marcucella and Brett Axon) tacked on a key insurance goal. Sophomore Trevor Marder played well in net for the Warriors with 24 saves. Anthony DeSousa scored the lone goal for the Black Knights.

King Philip, 2 @ Bridgewater-Raynham, 3 – Final (OT)

Girls Hockey
Canton, 5 vs. Dennis-Yarmouth, 2 – Final

King Philip, 4 @ Mansfield/Oliver Ames, 2 – Final – Kelly Holmes scored twice and Sydney O’Shea and Morgan Cunningham lit the lamp once each as King Philip skated to a league win over Mansifeld/Oliver Ames. Both Holmes and O’Shea also had a pair of assists and Cunningham had one, and Mallory Johnston had 19 saves in net for KP.

Stoughton/Sharon, 2 vs. St. Joseph’s Prep, 6 – Final – Ava Buckley accounted for both of Stoughton/Sharon’s goals but the Knights fell to St. Joseph’s Prep. Zoe Bangs assisted on both goals while Peri Rodman recorded one helper.

Wrestling
D2 State Dual Meet (Oliver Ames, Sharon, Mansfield, Milford, North Attleboro), 10:00 (@ North Andover) – Milford won three meets to claim the D2 State Dual championship while Oliver Ames took third and Sharon rounded out the top four. The Scarlet Hawks picked up a win over Plymouth South (60-18) to advance to the semifinal, where they secured a win over the Tigers (42-24). In the championship round, Milford pinned down a win over Minnechaug (52-22). Oliver Ames opened with a win over Mansfield (56-21), moved to the semifinals with a win over Dracut/Tyngsboro (43-33), and then after falling to Milford, rallied to avenge its league loss to Sharon with a come-from-behind 35-32 win, capped by a pin from heavyweight Jaden Hinton. Hinton, Kyle Hardie (145), Giovany Juste (170), and Nathan Lipski (132) went 4-0 on the day. Chris Mills (220) rallied for a win that cut the Sharon lead to three going into the last match, won by Hinton.

Brockton Quad (Taunton) – Taunton had another impressive day on the mat, picking up four wins at the Brockton Super Quad. The Tigers secured wins over Woburn (78-6), Quincy/North Quincy (63-12), Brockton (45-24), and Xaverian (52-27). Six Taunton grapplers went 4-0 on the day: Michael Leskoski, Anthony Vieira, Xavier Sandoval, Christian Balmain, Ethan Harris, and Peter Ye.

Girls Swimming
Hockomock Championships – Click here for Results and a Photo Gallery from the meet.

Monday’s Schedule & Scoreboard – 01/31/22

Today’s games are listed below.

Boys Basketball
Mansfield @ Bridgewater-Raynham – Postponed to Wednesday, 2/2 at 6:30.

Girls Basketball
Stoughton, 30 @ Brookline, 62 – Final – Stoughton dropped a contest on the road at Brookline on Monday evening. Evie Lam led the offense for the Black Knights with 11 points while Alyssa Edwards hauled in seven rebounds.

Milford, 71 vs. Burncoat, 59 – Final – Maddalena Mannucci Pacini scored a career-high 40 points, including 24 in the second half, to lead the Hawks to a big non-league win. Pacini buried seven threes, went 11-for-13 from the free throw line, and scored in double digits in three of the four quarters to set a new career mark. Erin Michelson added eight points for the Hawks, all in the first half, and Brooke Ferreira and Jess Douglas chipped in with six points apiece. Milford jumped out to a 23-9 lead after the first quarter and carried that advantage for the rest of the night.

Boys Hockey
Franklin, 6 vs. Weymouth, 1 – Final – Franklin scored twice in the first, once in the second, and three times in the third to win its opening round matchup of the Ed Burns Hockey Classic with Weymouth, avenging its loss to the Wildcats from earlier this season. Ben Jarosz scored a hat trick for the Panthers, scoring once in each period while Logan Marchand, Ben Paterson, and Christian Shabbick each had one goal. Sophomore Cole Pouliot-Porter made 20 saves in the win. Ryan Sicchio, Anthony Lampasona, and Shabbick each had a pair of assists in the win.

Canton, 4 vs. Burlington, 0 – Final – Click here for a Photo Gallery from this game. Eamon Kelly scored twice and Brendan Tourgee had a goal and two assists, as Canton dominated its first round game in the Ed Burns Hockey Classic. Kelly opened the scoring just 28 seconds into the game, as he followed up Tourgee’s initial shot and then lifted the rebound high to the clove side from close range. Six minutes into the second period, Kelly doubled the lead. He took a pass from Tourgee in the right wing circle, dragged it past a stick check and then roofed his shot from a tight angle. Tourgee sealed the win with 6:59 left to play, finding space inside the left wing circle and picking the far corner. Billy Delello tacked on a fourth inside the final minute, as he was in the right place to finish off a chance created by fellow senior Michael Leonetti. Freshman Colin Davis made 12 saves to record the shutout, as Canton outshot Burlington 34-12. The Bulldogs will take on Natick in the next round on Sunday.

Foxboro, 5 vs. Norton, 2 – Final – Foxboro scored four goals between the first two periods and tacked on one more in the third for a win over Norton. Derek Axon scored twice for the Warriors while Steven Bridges, Ben Ricketts, and Tom Marcucella each lit the lamp once in the win. Alex Coviello and Ricketts each recorded a pair of assists and Sullivan Keneally, Henry Diamond, and Bridges each had one helper. Sophomore Trevor Marder earned the win in between the pipes for Foxboro.

Mansfield, 2 @ Bishop Feehan, 8 – Final

North Attleboro, 1 vs. Silver Lake, 4 – Final

Stoughton, 3 @ Southeastern, 1 – Final – Chris Andrade shined between the pipes and Colin Alessi accounted for all three goals to lead the Black Knights to a win over Southeastern. Alessi scored a hat trick while Andrade turned in 25 saves in the win.

Taunton, 3 vs. Apponequet, 2 – Final (OT) – Colton Scheralis scored with five seconds left in overtime to give Taunton its second win over Apponequet in the past week. After skating to a 2-2 tie in regulation, the Tigers looked destined for a tie until Scheralis lit the lamp just before the buzzer to give Taunton the two points. Loran Corcoran and Evan Pereira also scored for Taunton while Conner Goranson, Connor McGrath, and Nathan Fernandes each had an assist. Freshman Cam Tomaszycki recorded 23 saves to get the win in net.

Gymnastics
Mansfield, 115 @ Sharon, 126 – Final

Tuesday’s Schedule & Scoreboard – 12/28/21

Today’s games are listed below.

Boys Basketball
Attleboro vs. Bishop Feehan – Postponed to TBD.

Canton, 46 @ Randolph, 56 – Final

King Philip, 66 vs. New Bedford, 63 – Final – King Philip junior Tommy Martorano hit six fourth quarter free throws to cap off a career-best 36-point performance to lead the Warriors to a win over New Bedford in Randolph’s Blue Devil Holiday Tournament. Without leading scorers Will Laplante and Danny Clancy in the lineup, Martorano took advantage of his opportunity. He came out of the gates flying with 10 point sin the opening quarter and had 23 by halftime as KP established a 46-28 lead by the break. New Bedford cut into the lead in the third and then came out flying in the fourth, getting it down to one-possession a handful of times in the final minutes but Martorano kept the Warriors ahead with shots from the line. Senior Braeden Sottile added 10 points for KP, who will take on host Randolph in the tournament final on Thursday at 6:30.

Milford vs. Bethany Christian – Postponed to TBD.

Oliver Ames, 61 vs. Dighton-Rehoboth, 39 – Final – Oliver Ames exploded for 26 points in the third quarter, turning a close game at halftime (25-19) into a comfortable victory over Dighton-Rehoboth in the opening round of the Muscato Holiday Tournament. MJ Jean-Baptiste scored eight of his career-high 14 points in the big third quarter for the Tigers, who had six players contribute to the 26-point frame. Zach Tagliamonte added four of his 11 points in the frame and Drew Baxter scored five of his nine.

Sharon, 68 vs. Fitchburg, 64 – Final (OT) – Sharon saw its eight-point lead at the start of the fourth quarter disappear over the final eight minutes but senior John Baez went 6-for-6 at the line in the overtime period to help the Eagles outlast Fitchburg. Baez finished with a career-high 16 points, going 8-for-8 from the line and hitting four shots from the field. Sharon’s bench had a big showing, helping the Eagles rally from a first half deficit. Junior Tyler Goodman led the charge off the bench with 10 points, Jacob McLaughlin added eight points, Nate Katznelson chipped in with six points and five boards, and Nate Yaffe had a key three in the first half. Sharon will take on Waltham on Wednesday night at 7:00 in the finals of the Ashland Clocker Classic.

Taunton, 72 @ Durfee, 77 – Final










Girls Basketball
Attleboro, 41 vs. Bishop Feehan, 78 – Final – Click here for a Photo Gallery from this game. Attleboro faced it third state title contender in its opening five games and the Bombardiers struggled to contain Feehan’s balanced offensive attack. Eight different players scored for the Shamrocks, including three in double digits, and Feehan 20 or more points in each of the first three quarters to pick up the win. Meghan Gordon led the Bombardiers with 15, including seven in the fourth quarter, and Lily Routhier added nine. Lindsey Perry scored all seven of her points in the second half, as Attleboro scored in double digits as a team in three of the four quarters, despite Feehan’s tough pressure defense.

Foxboro, 53 @ Needham, 47 – Final – Hannah Blake led all scorers with 21 points to help the Warriors win a third straight game and pick up an impressive non-league road victory. Freshman Kailey Sullivan hit double digits for the third straight game, adding 14 in the win.

Mansfield, 42 vs. Westwood, 43 – Final – Despite having junior Abby Wager leave with an injury midway through the third quarter, Mansfield battled Westwood to the final minutes in a game that was back-and-forth throughout. The Hornets had a one-point lead after one, but the Wolverines tied the game at halftime. Westwood won the third quarter 10-9, and held onto that advantage to the end. Kara Santos was the top scorer for the Hornets with seven points, including seven in the first half. Wager scored nine before her injury and Rose Maher and Bridget Hanley each had five. Mansfield will face Fontbonne in the consolation round of the Hearts for Hope Tournament on Thursday at 5:30.

Oliver Ames, 61 vs. Walpole, 37 – Final – Oliver Ames built a double-digit lead by halftime and went on to turn it into a blowout win over Walpole. The Tigers, limited to just seven players in uniform, played with a lot of discipline to only have two fouls in the first. Senior Caroline Peper led the way with 19 points, four blocks, and four steals while Jasmyn Cooper added 16 points (8-for-8 free throw) and 12 rebounds in the win.

Sharon @ East Bridgewater – Postponed to TBD.

Taunton, 53 vs. Durfee, 59 – Final – Kameron St. Pierre scored a game-high 28 points, but it wasn’t enough for the Tigers in the first round of their holiday tournament. Taunton went into the break down by just four, 31-27, after St. Pierre beat the buzzer with a near half-court three. She finished the first half with 18 of her team’s 27 points. St. Pierre added 10 more in the second half, including six from the line. Braeley MacDonald chipped in with a pair of threes and eight points in the second half. Durfee’s MacKenzie Carreiro scored 16 of her team-high 23 in the second half to help the Hilltoppers hold on and advance to face North Attleboro in Wednesday’s final. Taunton will face Holliston in the consolation round.

North Attleboro, 41 vs. Holliston, 38 – Final – The Rocketeers locked down on defense, using an effective 1-2-2 press to keep Holliston’s bigs from getting touches, and earned a win in the first round of the Taunton holiday tournament. North led 16-5 after one quarter, went into halftime up by nine and was able to hold off the Panthers in the second half to reach the final. Summer Doherty gave North an offensive spark, scoring 10 of her 19 points in the opening half. Taylor McMath added eight points for the Rocketeers, who missed some chances to put the game away at the line but continued to grind on defense to keep the lead. North will face Durfee in the final on Wednesday at 7:00.

Milford, 40 vs. Norwell, 60 – Final

Canton, 42 vs. Hingham, 51 – Final – Click here for a Photo Gallery from this game. The Bulldogs got off to a tough start to the game, falling behind 21-8 after one quarter and never fully recovered to lose to a fellow D2 tournament contender. Hingham’s pressure defense caused Canton problems early, but Sydney Gallery knocked down a pair of threes, scoring half of her 12 points in the first. The Bulldogs played better defensively in the second, holding the Harborwomen to just seven points and cutting the lead to single digits at halftime. Erin Beatty provided a spark off the bench, grabbing double digit rebounds and hitting a three in the second. Kiara Cerruti (11 points) scored four and Fay Gallery (12 points) added a three in the second. Cerruti added four more in the third, but Hingham extended its lead by one heading to the fourth. Canton put together a fourth quarter rally that cut the lead to just three (40-37), but the visitors went on a quick 11-2 burst that put the game away. Fay Gallery added a pair of threes in the fourth.

Boys Hockey
Foxboro, 5 vs. Old Rochester, 4 – Final – Tied after each the first (1-1) and second periods (3-3), Foxboro won the third period to beat Old Rochester. Jack Watts factored into each goal for the Warriors, scoring twice and assisting on all three of the others. Matt Grace scored twice, Alex Coviello lit the lamp once, and both Tom Marcucella and Brady Callahan had an assist. Josh Marcoux recorded the win in net.

North Attleboro @ East Greenwich (R.I.), 3:40 (@ Levy Arena)

Franklin, 3 vs. St. Mary’s Lynn, 2 – Final (OT)

Wrestling
George Bossi Holiday Tournament (Foxboro, Franklin, Oliver Ames), 9:00 (@ Lowell)

Taunton, 28 @ North Attleboro, 44 – Final – North Attleboro won five matches by fall, one by tech fall, one by decision, and one by forfeit in a victory over Taunton. Tanner Ferguson (126), Braxton Ferro (132), and Christopher Galligan (138) all earned pins in less than a minute while Griffin Gouck (152) and Austin Dean (195) also win by pin. Jaad Ismail (170) picked up an 18-2 tech fall while heavyweight Keysun Wise took a 9-4 decision. Taunton got wins from Ryan Jones (120, 1:31), Ben Mandeville (145, 3:44), Christian Balmain (160, 6-2), Ethan Harris (182, 11-3), and Peter Ye (220, 12-5).

Taunton, 28 vs. Cumberland, 43 – Final – Ryan Jones (113, 9-1), Christian Balmain (160, 6-3), Ethan Harris (182, 7-2), Avery Justa (195, 0:45), Peter Ye (220, 0:48), and Logan Frank (285, 3:50) each won for Taunton.

North Attleboro, 39 vs. Cumberland, 29 – Final – North Attleboro went 2-0 on the day, adding a win over Cumberland as well. Tanner Ferguson (126, 3:25), Christopher Galligan (138, 4:38), Griffin Gouck (152, 3:03), and Austin Dean (195, 2:35) all earned two pins on the day while Keysun Wise (285, 2:25), and Jaad Ismail (170, 7-5) both went 2-0. Greg Berthiaume (182) added a pinfall win (5:45) for the Rocketeers.

OLiver Ames Tri-Meet @ New Bedford – Oliver Ames picked up two wins on Tuesday, pinning down wins over Plymouth North (58-7) and New Bedford (42-39). Senior captains Giovany Juste (170) and Deric Lipski, Jr. (160) both went 2-0 with two pins while senior John Dobbin (138), junior Kyle Hardie (145), junior Henry Mirrione (152), and junior Jaden Hinton (285) also went 2-0. Against New Bedford, Henry Mirrione’s thrilling come-from-behind pin to win at 152 sparked the rally for the Tigers, who clinched the win over the Whalers when Jaden Hinton pinned his opponent with a quick headlock at heavyweight.

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

By HockomockSports.com Staff

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Attleboro

2020-2021 Record: 1-8-0
Coach: Greg Chamberlain
Attleboro had a difficult 2020-21 season, as delays and big breaks early in the season led to three games in three days to close things out. The Bombardiers will be hoping that they can build off that experience and make a push to get back into the postseason mix with several underclassmen stepping in to supplement the returning corps.

The offense has depth to it this season and head coach Greg Chamberlain is expecting a lot of grit and effort in the attacking zone to create scoring chances. Senior Nate Parker will be the leader of the forward line but he will get help from juniors Colin Flynn and Mike Lachance, who have both had two seasons on varsity already. Freshmen Austin Bessette and Nate Conroy have impressed the coaches in the preseason and could be ready to contribute right away.

Defense could be a strong unit this season, as the Bombardiers have decent skaters and decent depth along the blue line. Senior Sean Marshall will be the key to that group, providing on-ice leadership. Sophomore Dane Holske had a good first season on varsity and can help out both in defense and at forward. Senior Nick Piazza is capable of being one of the top netminders in the league and will be back between the pipes for Attleboro this season.

“Biggest thing that is a positive for us is the guys wanna earn some respect and be tough to play against,” said Chamberlain. “We understand what we have but we think our schedule can help us gain some real confidence.”

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Canton

2020-2021 Record: 11-0-1
Coach: Brian Shuman
The Davenport division has been ruled by Canton, which has won the title every season since the league split. The Bulldogs bring back a lot of returning players to hunt a 12th straight league title and defend the Div. 2 state title that they won back in 2019-20, but for many of the players, this will be their first season with a full slate of games.

Canton is known for its goalscoring, but the Bulldogs typically start from the defensive zone and this year should be no different. Senior Sean Connolly, the reigning league MVP, will be back at the blue line alongside classmate Ryan Doucette. Juniors James Young and Leo Owens should also see plenty of time on the ice with seniors Brennen Pecararo and Jay Kelleher slotting in at defense or at forward. The goalie job is up for grabs coming into the season with a three-way battle going on between senior Aiden French, junior Carson Eagles, and freshman Collin Davis.

As usual, the Bulldogs should be potent in front of the goal this winter. Senior Eamon Kelly, the team’s leading scorer last year, is back for his fourth season on varsity. Seniors Andrew Valkanas, Tommy Phaneuf, Sam Carlino, and Eddie Gillis will all chip in and junior Jeff Chaput could be poised for a big season after scoring 13 points last year.

“Solid team defense is the expectation as always this season, and we ask all positions to be important players all over the ice,” said Canton coach Brian Shuman. “Our forwards need to be able to shut down opponents and our defense must contribute to our offensive production to have a successful year.”

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Foxboro

2020-2021 Record: 4-6-0
Coach: Mark Cedorchuk
Just two years removed from one of the best seasons in program history, Foxboro comes into the winter with an experienced squad, featuring nine seniors, to try and make another push for a state tournament berth. Although the Warriors went 4-6 in the shortened 2020-21 season, four of those losses were against Franklin and Canton and the other two were to North Attleboro by a combined three goals, so there is potential for the Warriors to get back to their 2019-20 form.

The forward line should have plenty of firepower this season with the return of seniors Jack Watts, Matt Grace, and Ben Ricketts, who combined for 13 goals in 10 games last year. Fellow forwards Derek Axon and Steven Bridges will give Foxboro good leadership and depth in the forward line. The Warriors also got plenty of scoring from the blue line, with senior Tom Marcucella adding four goals and three assists last winter.

Improvements in the defensive zone (and not playing almost every game against the league’s top-scoring teams) will be expected this season. Marcucella is listed as a defenseman but has the versatility to line up in multiple positions and he will be helped on defense by classmates Dylan Pothier and Brady Callahan. Junior Alex Coviello and sophomore Sully Kenneally are also going to step into bigger roles on the blue line this season.

“I would say all nine of our seniors are going to be major contributors and that’s definitely a first for Foxboro hockey and it’s a good thing!” said Foxboro coach Mark Cedorchuk. “I would say we will be skilled and experienced.”

Franklin

2020-2021 Record: 10-2-1
Coach: Anthony Sarno
This will be a new-look Franklin team that takes the ice this season, looking to win its 11th straight league title and make a deep run in the postseason. The Panthers graduated 16 seniors from last year’s team and only return seven players with significant varsity experience to try and manage a schedule loaded with some of the best teams in the state.

Senior forward Dylan Marchand is the key returning player in the forward line. The team’s leading scorer last year, the speedy center scored eight goals and nine assists in 13 games. Seniors Justin Magazu and Domenic Lampasona and juniors Ben Jarosz and Ryan Sicchio will also return to add more firepower to the attacking end of the ice. With 14 new players on the roster, there could be a lot of new names on the score sheet this winter.

Defensively, the Panthers will lean on experienced players like seniors Aidan Hunt and Jack MacKinnon to guide the younger players, as they take on the high-end talent that Franklin will face right from the start of the season. In goal, sophomore Cole Pouliot-Porter and freshman Jack O’Connor will both get chances between the pipes.

“I am optimistic with the youth we have and excited to watch us grow together,” said Franklin coach Anthony Sarno. “We will just have to weather the ebbs and flows, try to remain even-keeled, communicate, and trust each other as a team in order for us to grow and move forward as a complete unit.”

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

King Philip

2020-2021 Record: 9-1-0
Coach: Paul Carlow
Last season, King Philip won a share of its first league title since 2006, picking up a rare win against rival Franklin in the process. With 12 returning players and a roster that has 16 upperclassmen, the Warriors will try to make more history by winning back-to-back titles for the first time in program history and also put together a run in the state tournament.

There are four players coming back this year that averaged a point per game in 2020-21. Three of those players are forwards. Seniors Shaun Fitzpatrick and Sean Crowther and junior James Boldy, who combined for 15 goals and 22 assists in 10 games last season. Senior Nolan Feyler will be a big boost, as the forward had a strong sophomore season but missed all of last year due to an injury. Senior Kevin Birenbaum is another of the nine seniors on the forward line.

Sophomore defenseman Brad Guden is the fourth Warrior who averaged a point per game last year. He broke into the lineup and scored 10 times and had 10 assists in his first varsity season. Seniors Nolan Jackson and Quin Garstka add leadership and experience at the blue line and sophomore Max Robison returns after an impressive rookie season. Senior Kyle Abbott will be back between the pipes for the Warriors.

“We have a tough schedule this season but we are looking to challenge for another Hockomock League title,” said KP coach Paul Carlow. We have great leadership from our seniors and a good mix of skill and speed with the younger players. I’m really looking forward to working with this group and build on last year’s success.”

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Mansfield

2020-2021 Record: 5-6-0
Coach: Mike Balzarini
With its top six forwards all back from last year, there is optimism that Mansfield will consistently put the puck in the back of the net and in turn, challenge for the Kelley-Rex division title.

And another big positive for the Hornets is junior Chris Hormann back between the pipes with a solid amount of varsity experience now under his belt. That combination of experience in the offensive zone and in the crease is what Mansfield is hoping translates to success. The challenge will be getting a new mix of defensemen working together as the Hornets graduated the majority of that unit.

Leading scorer Mark DeGirolamo returns with a lot of varsity experience under his belt, coming off a season with eight goals and five assists. He’s joined by Dillon Benoit (7 goals, 5 assists), Kyle Oakley (2 goals, 5 assists), Doherty (2 goals, 3 assists), Liam Anastasia (6 goals, 5 assists), and Brayden Purtell (4 goals, 2 assists). As the stats suggest, the Hornets have a very even top two lines which means head coach Mike Balzarini can trust both units to get it done.

Looks for the line of Cullen Egan, Cody Gordon, and Connor Davey to provide energy and some offensive punch throughout the season. Balzarini is looking for some new faces to step up on the blue line. A mix of depth pieces are back, and the Hornets have converted some forwards to defensemen looking to solidify that unit. Patrick Gormley, Brendan Flynn, Will Cameron, Ryan DeGirolamo, and Ty Carroll are all in the mix to get some minutes.

“Last season was difficult for everyone so we’re excited for a more normal year,” Balzarini said. “We’re going to be quick and we have multiple lines that can be a factor for us. We’ve seen some success on offense in our scrimmages so scoring should be a strength, these kids are working well together.”

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

North Attleboro

2020-2021 Record: 8-6-0
Coach: Kyle Heagney
North Attleboro returns 14 players from last year’s roster, including two of the league’s top three scorers, and the Rocketeers will be looking to use that experience under first-year coach Kyle Heagney (who formerly coached Norton and was a North assistant the past two seasons) to challenge Canton at the top of the Davenport division and to put together a playoff run.

Although the Rocketeers bring back senior forwards Nik Kojoain and Brady Sarro, who combined for 41 points in 14 games last year, North is a team built on hard work and team effort in the offensive zone, rather than on individual stars. Seniors Sam Clarke and Nick Longa and juniors Joe Quinn and Mark Ayvazyan will provide plenty of help in front of goal and all have plenty of experience at the varsity level.

North graduated only one of its defensemen from last year. Senior Austin Comery will be the leader for North at the blue line and he will be assisted by classmate Anthony Westcott. Sophomore Kyle Gruber is back in goal for North after an impressive debut season, where he was thrown in against some of the league’s top teams, including a first appearance against Canton.

“Our strength is that we are not a team of superstars,” said Heagney. “We are a team of hockey players that will win first in the locker room before the ice. We look forward to the season and having fun. These are memories that will live forever with our players.”

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Oliver Ames

2020-2021 Record: 1-10-0
Coach: Mike Zucarelli
Oliver Ames has been in a rebuilding phase under head coach Mike Zucarelli. The Tigers won just once in the shortened 2020-21 season and head into this winter with a roster loaded with underclassmen. While this may be a difficult season, Zucarelli is excited for the potential on his team and the growth the program is making for the future.

Seniors Cam Tower and Eliot Cohen will be instrumental in shoring things up at the blue line. The two defensemen will need to provide leadership for the younger players and help limit the opposition scoring chances. Junior forwards Sean McCarthy and Jack Perron will hope to improve the team’s scoring punch as well, after OA was held to 10 goals in 11 games last year. Zucarelli is already seeing more confidence and better decision-making in the offensive zone and is hoping the team’s work rate will lead to more chances.

With seven sophomores on the roster, OA will rely on its youth movement to turn things around. After a lot of growth in the offseason (both physically and mentally), Zucarelli thinks that the septet is ready for the challenges of playing varsity hockey day-in, day-out. Winger Andrew Livingstone and center Matt Lawson will add to the team’s production in the offensive zone and defenseman Landon Grothe could be a standout in the defensive end of the ice. Junior Brandon Burke had a solid summer with his club team and will be the starting goalie for the Tigers this winter.

“If we continue to put in the effort I have seen both on and off the ice to start this year, I believe these young men have the opportunity to do something special,” Zuccarelli said.

2021-2022 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Taunton

2020-2021 Record: 0-6-1
Coach: Kris Metea
Taunton had a tough 2020-21 season, as the Tigers were only able to six games, and come into a winter of transition. The roster is going to be very young, with only nine upperclassmen (juniors and seniors) in the program, so there will be a lot of younger players getting their first taste of varsity action and others experiencing a full season for the first time.

The forward line has a lot of speed and the Tigers are going to rely on that energy to try and create scoring chances. Senior Nathan Fernandes is the most experienced forward returning and he will be joined up top by junior Connor McGrath.

Defensively, the Tigers will be an inexperienced group but there is potential and the desire to get better over the course of the season. Senior Ethan Ross will be the leader at the blue line and junior Colton Scheralis can add his experience there as well. Freshman Cameron Tomaszycki will be jumping between the pipes this season to get his first varsity action.

“We are happy to be back for a full year,” said Taunton coach Kris Metea. “Last season was full of delays, pauses, and feelings of frustrations that made for a very long, short, season. The lessons learned from last season has made the players within the program grateful for a return to a more normal season. We will plan to improve every day and be a better, more complete team by the end of the season.”

2020-2021 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

2020-2021 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview
Mansfield and North Attleboro clashed on the ice in January 2020. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)

By HockomockSports.com Staff

2020-2021 Hockomock Boys Hockey Preview

Attleboro

2019-2020 Record: 5-14-1
2019-2020 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Greg Chamberlain
Attleboro struggled down the stretch last season, losing nine of its final 11 games (five of those losses by two goals or fewer) and narrowly missing out on a postseason berth. Former Canton assistant Greg Chamberlain has taken over this season with the goal of making the Bombardiers competitive in the Kelley-Rex division.

Goalie will be a position of strength this year, as Attleboro has three players that can step in between the pipes. Junior Nick Piazza will be the starter after a breakout sophomore year where he made nearly 500 saves. Junior Michael DuTremble and freshman Julien Horton are the other goalies on the roster. In front of Piazza, Attleboro has three solid pairings. Senior Owen Dryjowicz moved from forward to defense late last season and looked comfortable on the blue line. Junior Sean Marshall and senior Zack Pierce are also returning defenders that the Bombardiers are counting on.

Offensively, the Bombardiers will miss the scoring of Ryan Morry, who led the team with 21 points, but with several returning players Attleboro has the potential to put together solid forward lines. Senior Aidan Dryjowicz is the team’s top returning scorer with nine goals and classmate Jake Ward, junior Nate Parker, and freshman winger Dane Holskie have the potential to contribute to the attack this season.

“I think the key to this season,” said Chamberlain, “is that everyone needs to pull their weight. If you look around the league teams that win have three or four lines that they can roll out every night. That is going to be the name of the game for us. Keeping it simple and do your job.”

Canton

2019-2020 Record: 21-1-3
2019-2020 Finish: Div. 2 State Co-Champion
Coach: Brian Shuman
Although Canton didn’t get the chance to go to the TD Garden to face Lincoln-Sudbury and try to avenge its only loss of the past two seasons, the Bulldogs brought home a second straight Div. 2 state championship. Even for a program with the sustained success of Canton, last year’s senior class had a uniquely impressive record and that class’ graduation leaves a lot of holes that new faces will need to step into.

Last year’s top scorers, Johnny Hagan and Chris Lavoie, combined for 37 goals and 68 points, so it will be tough to reproduce that output. Senior Dylan Coyne will be hoping to make up some of that scoring punch and the Bulldogs will hope junior Eamon Kelly can return from an injury and get back to the form he showed last year.

While the defense was also hit hard by graduation, Canton returns a pair of defensemen that saw considerable time on the blue line last season. Junior Sean Connolly and sophomore Vincent Sica both jumped right into the lineup and looked comfortable competing at the top level, but this year they will also be experienced veterans and leaders in that group. Senior Liam Polles will get the chance to jump in goal this year.

Canton coach Brian Shuman said, “I can say that after the first two weeks, things are certainly different in many ways, but I am confident that we will adapt and adjust like most teams our league to give our players a much-needed physical outlet and important connection to a team.”

Foxboro

2019-2020 Record: 12-5-5
2019-2020 Finish: Reached Div. 3 South Semifinal
Coach: Mark Cedorchuk
Foxboro has grown by leaps and bounds in recent seasons. Each of the past three years have seen the Warriors set a new standard for the best season in program history, culminating in last winter’s 12 wins and run to the Div. 3 South semifinal.

Depth at the forward line will be a strength this season and Foxboro should be capable of scoring plenty of goals. Senior forward Kirk Leach was second in the Hock last year with 20 goals and he leads an experienced group. Junior Jack Watts had 13 goals and 14 assists last year and is another big, physical forward. Senior Brady Daly will look to add to his nine points from last season and junior Eoin Reager can play multiple positions, including forward, and added 14 points as a sophomore.

The Warriors will obviously miss former Hock MVP Espen Raeger, who was one of the league’s top goalies. Senior Jack Spinney was the backup goalie last year and could step in between the pipes after seeing a few minutes of action as a junior. Junior Dylan Pothier and sophomore Alex Coviello are two of the returning defensemen from last year’s team and both played big roles in the team’s strong performance in the postseason. Eoin Reager can also play in the back line.

“We have a lot of forwards returning, so the depth is there,” said Foxboro coach Mark Cedorchuk. “We also have a lot of skilled defenseman holding the blue line. Looking forward to the season, even though it will look and feel a lot different, I’m just happy for our guys get to play.”




Franklin

2019-2020 Record: 11-8-4
2019-2020 Finish: Reached Div. 1 South Semifinal
Coach: Anthony Sarno

Head coach Anthony Sarno can’t help but wonder what could have been for this season. Franklin had a strong group of returners back from last year’s squad and Sarno had a schedule filled with top teams from around the state ready to see how his Panthers stacked up to the elite talent. But now Franklin will focus on its 10-game Hockomock schedule with a chance to prove it’s the top team in the league.

Franklin will rely on its senior class to lead the way. The Panthers will be very solid in the back, starting with senior goalie Jack Paterson. After serving in a backup capacity previously, Paterson steps into the starting role but is getting pushed in practice by classmate Gary Mandia. Along the blue line, Franklin has plenty of familiar names with the likes of Joe LeBlanc (nine points), Will Sheehan, Justin Abely, and Pat Dolan — all four are seniors with a good amount of varsity experience.

Offensively, the Panthers have a good variety of attacking options led by last year’s HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year Dylan Marchand (13 points). Sarno is carrying 20 players and plans to use them all, rolling four lines offensively. JT Dwyer and Declan Lovett are both senior centers and have been strong in the face off circle so far. Sophomore Ben Jarosz should see an expanded role after getting some time last year. Franklin will look to expand on its puck possession after making the switch from a dump-and-chase team.

“We were looking forward to playing against some of the best teams in the state but we’re going to make the most of this opportunity,” Sarno said. “We’re going to give it our all each game. We’ve going to practice as hard as we play in games, the energy the kids have brought has been contagious. We’re treating every game like a playoff game, that’s the type of energy we want to bring to each game.”

King Philip

2019-2020 Record: 10-6-5
2019-2020 Finish: Reached Div. 1 South First Round
Coach: Paul Carlow
King Philip pushed Franklin to the final week of the regular season in its quest to win a first league title since 2013 (and end the nine-year reign for the Panthers in the Kelley-Rex). The Warriors did get back into the postseason, although again Franklin stood in the way in the preliminary round, and will return 13 players to make another run at that elusive league championship.

Experience on both ends of the ice will be the strength for KP this season, with eight seniors and eight juniors on the roster, including a pair of four-year players. Senior forward Conor Cooke and senior defenseman Rocco Bianculli have been critical players for each of the past three seasons. Bianculli is not only a leader at the blue line, but also one of the league’s top offensive defenders. KP returns three of its top four scorers from last year. In addition to Bianculli, senior Aidan Boulger and junior Nolan Feyler provide the scoring punch on the forward line and are a good mix with Cooke’s physical presence up front. Seniors Paul McDonald and Justin Yatsuhashi add speed and depth.

Defensively, senior David Lawler will join Bianculli on the blue line. More of a defensive-minded player, Lawler adds solidity in his own zone and is counted on to make the right plays under pressure. Seniors Shea Cunningham and Geoff Bowes are also returning defensemen that couple size and experience around their own net. Sophomore Kyle Abbott will take over between the pipes

“As always we are looking to build on last year and compete for the league title,” said KP coach Paul Carlow. “Our team this season has some good experience. We also have some real skill and speed in the younger group.”

Mansfield

2019-2020 Record: 7-8-6
2019-2020 Finish: Reached Div. 1 South First Round
Coach: Mike Balzarini

The Hornets aren’t focusing on how many games are on the schedule but focusing on taking it one game at a game instead. Mansfield brings back a lot of players that picked up varsity experience last season during the team’s postseason run.

Replacing three-year starter Sean McCafferty in goal won’t be easy but head coach Mike Balzarini has praised the work of Chris Hormann, who will be taking over in between the pipes. Balzarini said Hormann learned a lot last season in his backup role, is coming off a stellar fall season and has looked strong so far in practice this year. Captain Jake Quirk will anchor the blue line unit for the Hornets and will be joined by some familiar faces. Senior Joseph Gormley will bring a lot of experience to the defensive group and will be joined by sophomore Patrick Gormley as well as Ben Levine and James Hughes.

Senior captain Cam Page will spearhead the attack for the Hornets this season. Mansfield lost most of its point production to graduation so there will be plenty of opportunities for new faces to take advantage of. Mark DiDiralamo, Kyle Oakley, Dillon Benoit, Ryan Doherty, and Liam Anastasia are all in the mix for the top six for Mansfield.

“It’s a shortened season but we have looked good thus far in practice and in our scrimmage,” Balzarini said. “We’re looking to push the pace this year and play a faster-paced game.”

North Attleboro

2019-2020 Record: 7-8-6
2019-2020 Finish: Reached Div. 2 South Preliminary Round
Coach: Ben McManama

On the ice, it’s been business as usual for the Red Rocketeers, who have a strong returning core ready to make a run at dethroning Canton atop the Davenport division. The biggest challenges for head coach Ben McManama and his squad so far have been adapting to all of the changes off of the ice.

Expectations are high for the Big Red with some familiar names at each position. The most returners come from the offense where the Rocketeers have a handful of forwards back, giving McManama the flexibility to run at least three lines. Senior captain Tyler Sarro will be a leader on and off the ice and will be joined by his brother Brady as the wings on the top line. Nik Kojoian is back after missing almost all of last season and will center the top line. McManama notes his second and third lines are interchangeable, more “2A” and “2B” rather than second and third lines. Juniors Sam Clarke and Nick Longa and sophomores Mark Ayvazyan and Joe Quinn will all be in the mix.

The Rocketeers will have a lot of spots to fill along the blue line after graduating a strong corps of defensemen from last winter. Senior Charlie Connolly and junior Austin Comery are the veterans in the group, entering this season with the most experience. McManama has tabbed junior Anthony Westcott as another option along the blue line while the final spot is up for grabs. Senior James Burtch will take over in net for the Rocketeers while freshman Kyle Gruber is pushing for time.

“The big thing for us this year is being a system team,” McManama said. “We have to be disciplined with our system. We’re really harping on sticking to our system and what we do, and we have to be really disciplined and do our jobs. That’s how we’re going to generate goals and it’s going to be how we stop shots too, it works on both ends. We’ve had great practices, it’s been fun getting the kids back.”




Oliver Ames

2019-2020 Record: 6-13-2
2019-2020 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Mike Zucarelli
Oliver Ames finished 2019-20 with six wins, but also had four losses by a single goal (all four to teams in the playoffs), so the Tigers were closer to earning a postseason berth under first-year coach Mike Zuccarelli than the final record may indicate. This season, the Tigers return to the Davenport division for the first time since 2016 and with only six returning players there will be opportunities for new faces to step in and contribute right away.

Seniors Ross Carroll and Matt Nigro will provide leadership in the forward line and much-needed experience for a young group. Sophomores Sean McCarthy and Jack Perron both saw action last year and their development will be important for the Tigers to get consistent production from the forward lines.

Defensively, senior Kevin Tremblay and junior Elliot Cohen both grew into bigger roles last year and will be expected to lead the blue line corps this season. Sophomore Brandon Burke will take over in net after backing up Owen Connor last winter. Zuccarelli is also counting on a strong freshman group to come in and provide an instant impact and is excited about the potential for the program going forward.

“Patience and resilience are going to be two major themes this year as we have already experienced,” said Zucarelli. “Our goal is to grow as a team and tackle each challenge we are presented together both on and off the ice. I am confident with our senior leadership, outstanding assistant coaches, and the support we receive from the OA community that we will have a season to remember.”

Stoughton

2019-2020 Record: 4-16-1
2019-2020 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Dan Mark

After an up-and-down first year in a co-op with Brockton, the Black Knights are aiming for an improved 2021 season. After a year away, Stoughton is back in Hockomock League competition and will be vying for the Davenport title.

With just four players gone to graduation, longtime head coach Dan Mark has a veteran squad at his disposal for the upcoming 10-game schedule plus a small postseason planned. The foundation of the team starts between the pipes as the Black Knights have two goalies back with experience. Sophomore Chris Andrade will compete with senior Ryan Spano for the starting job in net.

In front of goal, Mark is leaning on a trio of juniors plus one senior to get the job done. Senior Kenny Young will be joined along the blue line by Josh Greenspoon, Anthony Hern, and Steven Westerlund — all returners from a season ago. Offensively, the Black Knights will turn three-year starters in junior Colin Alessi and Joe McNulty to anchor the offense. They’ll be joined by seniors Kyle Cruickshank, Cade O’Connell, Mike Andrade, and Ryan Flannery to bolster the attack.

“We have a veteran team blended with some younger players and are looking to improve on last year’s record,” Mark said.

Taunton

2019-2020 Record: 10-11-3
2019-2020 Finish: Reached Div. 2 South First Round
Coach: Kris Metea

Taunton is returning a plethora of players from last year’s varsity squad that had double-digit wins and made a trip to the postseason. Now, the Tigers are just hoping to play a complete — albeit shortened — season.

The Tigers got a couple of days on the ice before the school district paused all athletic activities over the winter break. Head coach Kris Metea and his 18 returning players are hoping to resume practice on Monday and get their season back on track. While the break will certainly be a setback for the Tigers, having such an experienced squad will help when Taunton does get back on the ice. Leading the way will be a pair of defensemen: senior captain and Hockomock League All Star Brady Nichols and junior Jack DeMoura, a HockomockSports.com All-Underclassman Team selection.

Having reliable options on the blue line will be key as the Tigers sort out the situation between the pipes. Senior Jason Frates, who only has a handful of years of experience at the position, is set to start in net. Offensively, the challenge will be replacing the production from Michael Albert, one of the most productive players in program history. Metea will look to juniors Nathan Fernandes and Loren Corcoran as well as sophomores Colton Scheralis and Connor McGrath to replicate that production. Senior Camden Faria will be a leader of the offensive group

“2020 has been a challenging time and we are hoping that athletics can provide respite for players and families as we enter 2021,” Metea said. “We will take whatever games guidelines allows us to play and be thankful for the opportunity to skate in the presence of friends!”

Foxboro Falls To Hanover In South Semifinals

Foxboro boys hockey Kirk Leach
Foxboro junior Kirk Leach skates his way through the Hanover defense in the first period. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)
ByRyanLanigan_2016FollowRyanLanigan_2016
 
 
BOURNE, Mass. – In less than a minute late in the third period, the Foxboro boys hockey team scored the tying goal and had an opportunity to find the winner with a power play.

All of the momentum seemed to be with the Warriors.

Then the Indians used their patented quick breakout, and with four Warriors caught up in the offensive zone, Hanover had a 2-on-1 shorthanded breakaway.

Senior Ethan Davis drew the defenseman before delivering a perfectly weighted pass, finding Manning Morris all alone in front and the Hanover junior buried his bid with less than five minutes to go and the third-seeded Indians skated to a 2-1 win over #7 Foxboro in D3 South Semifinal action.

“We were right there though, we were so close getting to the next level,” said Foxboro head coach Mark Cedorchuk. “I told the guys coming back to use this as motivation. I wouldn’t be surprised if [Hanover] goes all the way which shows how close we were.”

Hanover took the lead with a goal late in the second period but the Warriors spent the third period working hard, creating chances in search of an equalizer.

As the clock ticked past the midway point of the third, it looked like Foxboro’s best chance had come and gone as senior Ronnie MacLellan drew the attention of a pair of defensemen, allowing junior Kirk Leach to latch onto the puck and fire a shot from in close only for Hanover goalie Matt Rowe to make his best stop of the game.

But Foxboro, who was making its first appearance in a sectional semifinal, didn’t dwell and the pressure continued. Another rush was knocked aside but only as far as sophomore defenseman Eoin Reager, who had pinched down into the play. He took his time gaining possession before sniping a shot into the top corner from the left circle, knotting the score at 1-1 with 5:48 to play.

“Eoin’s vision and hands are phenomenal, he just sees the ice so well and knows how to anticipate,” Cedorchuk said. “He ripped off a great shot.”

Less than a minute later, sophomore Matt Grace was brought down as he entered the offensive zone and just like that, Foxboro was staring at a 5-on-4 opportunity for the next two minutes. But it was the Indians, using the shorthanded breakaway, that found the back of the goal next.

“They transition pretty quick, our defense caught got in too low and it created an odd-man rush and that was the difference.

“But I’m just really proud of these guys, this is the most successful season we’ve had. This senior class, the character they have is fantastic, they helped lay down the foundation of where we are at today. We’ve never gone this far, and we know we can go further but it didn’t work out today. They’ve given everything we’ve asked. Espen Reager is a big reason we’re here too, he’s going to be missed.”

Espen Reager and the Foxboro defense was a big reason that the team had an opportunity to tie the game in the third period. He turned away 11 shots in the opening frame and had 13 more saves in the second period.

And in the third, Reager did his best to make sure it stayed a one-goal deficit. Just two minutes into the frame, Morris intercepted a pass and was wide open in the slot in front of goalie but was denied by Reager’s pad stop.

And the Warriors defense did its part too. The Indians had a 2-on-1 chance with 11 minutes to go but freshman Alex Coviello made a decisive sweep of his stick and prevented a shot on goal.

Foxboro still had 1:45 of its power play left after going down 2-1 and came close to tying the game again. Eoin Reager connected with classmate Jack Watts but the redirection was just wide. Senior defenseman Kyle McGinnis rifled a shot from the blue line that Rowe turned aside.

And on a one-timer off the stick of Leach clanked off the post and stayed out.

“They did a good job on the blue line,” Cedorchuk said. “We wanted to get the pucks in deeper. We were creating offense once we got it in and we got some pucks to the net but that bounce or the shot we needed didn’t happen for us.”

After an even scoreless first period, Hanover cashed in with 3:27 to go in the second period. After being denied by Reager and the Foxboro defense on a handful of bids before, the Warriors had some bad luck as a clearance attempt up the boards appeared to hit the ref and stay in.

Hanover was first to the puck and whipped it across ice to Morris, who was all alone in the left circle. He centered the puck back to Nate Delprete, who was streaking towards goal, and his redirect found the back of the net.

Foxboro had a couple of good looks through the first two periods but couldn’t get the puck across the line. Sebastian Ricketts won a battle down low and found Brady Daky in front for a one-timer that was saved early in the first period. And Watts had a pair of chances during a late power play chance but Rowe was up to the task.

And to start the second, Foxboro broke into the attacking zone with a 2-on-1 as Watts found the stick of Leach, but his bid on net was just wide.

Foxboro boys hockey finishes its best season in program history at 12-5-5.

Foxboro Blanks JPII With Strong Defensive Effort

Foxboro boys hockey
Foxboro’s Matt Grace (2) celebrates with teammate Brady Daly after scoring the first goal of the game in the first period. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)
ByRyanLanigan_2016FollowRyanLanigan_2016
 
 
CANTON, Mass. – Scoring against Foxboro is challenging enough with senior goalie Espen Reager between the pipes.

Add in terrific performances from defensemen Kyle McGinnis, Dylan Pothier, Eoin Reager, andAlex Coviello, and its no wonder the 7th-seeded Warriors blanked the high power offense of #2 John Paul II.

The Lions, entering Sunday afternoon’s contest averaging over five goals a game and fresh off a dominating win over Greater New Bedford that featured 11 goals, were limited to very few goal-scoring opportunities throughout the 45 minutes of the D3 South Quarterfinal matchup with the Warriors.

Click here for a photo gallery from this game.

That was because of the pairing of McGinnis and Pothier made sure to keep every John Paul II attack to the outside. And Eoin Reager and Coviello were quick to clear the path to the goal, if any shot did get through, Espen Reager had no problem seeing it.

The result was a 3-0 upset for the Warriors, scoring once late in the first period and tacking on two more in the final minutes of the third period. With the win, Foxboro advances to the sectional semifinals for the first time in program history.

“It means a lot for the program, it’s huge for our confidence,” said Foxboro head coach Mark Cedorchuk. “It’s the first time we’ve reached this far in the tournament so we’re looking forward to the opportunity to challenge whoever we play next.

“We didn’t give [John Paul II] much. They were dumping and chasing for the most part, and the shots they had, they were from the outside and Espen is going to stop those 99.9% of the time unless it gets deflected. They didn’t have a lot of opportunities in the scoring zones, maybe a couple of scrambles, but we really kept them to the outside.”

Perhaps nothing summed the game up better than a three-minute span in the third period. With Foxboro holding a 1-0 lead and less than half of the period left, the Lions broke out of their own zone and into the offensive zone.

But only a few strides in, Eoin Reager stepped up and swept the puck free to the boards and went on to finish his check, and the Lions’ possession came up empty.

A minute later, as John Paul II tried to enter the zone again the Warriors’ backcheck broke the play up as sophomore Matt Grace hustled to get back into the play and broke the play up from behind. Once again, the Lions were without a shot at a crucial point in the game.

“They’re keeping a lot of shots to the outside which is making it a lot easier for me to put rebounds into the corner and only face one shot,” said Espen Reager. “The defense is really helping out right now and I’m really liking it. For the most part I was able to see everything, being able to see the puck obviously helps when you’re trying to stop it. The defense was clearing everyone out in front.”

The defensive work paid off as junior forward Kirk Leach used his speed to race into the offensive zone a minute later, getting past a defenseman before lifting a shot on net. JPII goalie Gunnar Stevens got enough of the puck to stop it from going in but the puck sat on the goal line and Foxboro sophomore Jack Watts crashed the net and buried it for a 2-0 lead with 4:53 to play.

“And on top of the defense, the thing we’ve been working on is our backcheck,” Cedorchuk said. “We don’t want to get caught with three guys down low. We had a certain forecheck going to make sure that wasn’t going to happen. We were backchecking the middle of the ice, staying with them. I’m happy with how the guys played, they played hard. All the guys that were in there really contributed for us.”

The Lions only managed one scrum in front that resulted in a shot that went wide, and one final shot from the neutral zone that Reager easily gloved down, after going down 2-0.










Foxboro senior Ronnie MacLellan lifted the puck out of the defensive zone, Leach carried into the attacking zone and laid it off to Watts for the empty net goal with 32 seconds left.

“Our schedule definitely helped prepare us for this,” Espen Reager said. “And we can look and compare the schedule and see who they’ve played. We’ve played some really good competition and we’ve shown we can stay in games with top teams. And that’s been a great confidence booster for us in the tournament.”

The Warriors wasted little time applying pressure on the 17-win Lions. Just a couple minutes in, Stevens was forced to make a big save when Foxboro sophomore Ben Ricketts found junior Ryan Jacobs right in front for a one-timer.

Minutes later, Leach set up MacLellan and his blast beat Stevens but was denied by the inside of the post, the rebound falling right underneath the goalie.

John Paul II went on the power play on a too many men call on the Warriors but only managed one clean look, turned aside by Reager. Sebastian Ricketts won a battle and got a big clearance to help kill the penalty.

Foxboro’s first line of Leach, Watts, and MacLellan had a pair of bids go begging but the Warriors’ second line came up clutch in the final minutes.

Sophomore Matt Grace won a battle in the neutral zone and carried the puck over the blue line. With an open look at goal, Grace ripped a wrist shot that beat Stevens to give Foxboro a 1-0 lead with 1:05 left in the first period.

Click here for a photo gallery from this game.

“It’s huge, it gives us a big lift,” Cedorchuk said of getting scoring from beyond the first line. “Getting that first goal from our second line, from Matt Grace, it just gives us a lot of confidence. And from there, it’s just a matter of time until our powerhouse line gives us something too. We had some really good chances, hit a couple of posts too. We’re happy with how we’re creating offense, we just have to tighten some things up.

“We felt like we were wearing them down, putting pressure on their defense with multiple lines.”

Reager’s biggest test of the second period came five minutes in on a wrist shot from the circle but the goalie reacted well to deny the bid. He came up with another strong save after PJII’s two-on-one failed, instead a strong shot from the blue line through traffic was gobbled up.

Foxboro boys hockey (12-4-5) will take on #3 Hanover (18-3-1) on Thursday at Gallo Arena with the time still to be announced.

Foxboro Passes Test Against Potential Playoff Foe

Foxboro boys hockey Kirk Leach
Foxboro junior Kirk Leach sets up for a shot in the third period against Abington. (Ryan Lanigan/HockomockSports.com)
ByRyanLanigan_2016FollowRyanLanigan_2016
 
 
 
CANTON, Mass. – With the state tournament right around the corner, the Foxboro boys hockey team seems to be clicking on all gears.

The Warriors closed the regular season out in impressive fashion, skating to a dominant 4-1 win over Abington, a team Foxboro could potentially see in the Division 3 South tournament next week.

“I like the way we’re playing right now,” said Foxboro head coach Mark Cedorchuk. “We’re playing well offensive, we’re moving the puck, we’re getting hungry toward the net and we’re finishing our opportunities. And we’re playing well defensively too, keeping guys to the outside so Espen [Reager] can see the puck, picking guys up in front of the net and we’re starting to backcheck better too.

Click here for a photo gallery from this game.

“We’re playing with the team speed we know we have, we’re using it to our advantage. All of our lines are playing well on both ends of the ice. We needed to work on picking guys up in transition coming back, and we’re doing a much better job with that back check.”

After an up-and-down 1-3-1 start to the season, the Warriors have suffered just one loss in the last 14 games (2-0 to Canton), and are undefeated in their last 10 contests (7-0-3). The win over Abington, who entered the contest with the same amount of points as Foxboro, will likely give Foxboro a home game in the tournament without playing in a preliminary game.

While controlling the first period, the Warriors didn’t have anything to show for it, despite a 15-6 edge on shots on goal through the first 15 minutes. Junior Ryan Sullivan had a chance in the opening minutes, batting at a loose puck after Kyle McGinnis had a shot from the blue line saved.

But the biggest moments for the Warriors came shorthanded as Foxboro had to kill a pair of man-advantage chances for the Green Wave. Going on the power play just under five minutes in, Abington had just two saves, both handled by Espen Reager (18 saves). McInnis came up with a big clearance and senior Sebastian Ricketts was a menace on the forecheck, hampering Abington’s efforts to break out.

The Green Wave went back on the power play with 4:13 to play in the first but it was more of the same from the Warriors’ defense. Reager made a strong reactionary stop on a shot from Michael Pineau before Foxboro pushed up ice, Ricketts again setting the tone by applying pressure and drawing a penalty to make it 4-on-4.

It didn’t take long for Foxboro to find the back of the net in the second period. The Warriors went on the power play 12 seconds into the frame and cashed in with just seconds left on the man-advantage. Sophomore Eoin Reager tried to center the puck but it was blocked right back to him and this time he took it himself, tucking it just inside the post for a 1-0 lead with 12:57 left in the period.

“We knew once we got that first goal, it just gave us the momentum and confidence,” Cedorchuk said. “We were outplaying them and the time of possession was in our favor so we just needed to get the first goal. We’re definitely happy with how we’re playing going into the playoffs.”

The lead last just over two minutes as Abington’s Dave McAruther used a nice move to get the puck on his backhand in front and lifted in the tying puck with 10:45 to go in the period.

But the Warriors were quickly back on the attack and took the lead before the end of the period with another power play goal. With sophomore Jack Watts battling in the corner, Leach skated over and picked up puck free, skating towards net and firing a shot into the top corner for a 2-1 lead with 3;48 to play in the second.










“We had a lot of shots yesterday [against East Bridgewater] so we’re creating a lot of offense,” Cedorchuk said. “I like the way the guys are finishing, we’re really playing well behind their defensemen.”

Foxboro nearly tacked on another tally before the end of the period but sophomore Ben Ricketts had a pair of chances denied by Abington’s goalie, and then another chance after a scrum knocked down by a defenseman in front of net.

Leach was the catalyst for the next goal, helping Foxboro take its first two-goal advantage in the game. He pounced on a loose puck and skated behind net, abruptly stopping and changing back to the direction he came from. He picked out Ronnie MacLellan in front, who squeezed his shot five-hole for a 3-1 lead with 11:04 left in the third.

Abington once again went on the power play but the Warriors were up to the task, getting their third kill of the game. Sophomore Matt Grace interrupted a pair of passes, leading to a clearance from McGinnis. The Warriors even had the best scoring chance during the stretch as Leach had a wrist shot denied after a nice clearance from Eoin Reager.

Click here for a photo gallery from this game.

Foxboro tacked on another insurance goal with 4:35 to play as Alex Coviello fired a shot on net that deflected off the goalie and an Abington defenseman, eventually popping free in the slot and Leach was first to it, blasting a shot into the back of the net with the goalie turned around from the scrum.

“We didn’t let them get back into it, didn’t let them get any confidence,” Cedorchuk said. “It was a good third period to see, we definitely keep the pedal to the metal so to speak, just kept coming and put a lot of pressure on them until the end of the game.”

Foxboro boys hockey finished at 10-4-5 and awaits tournament seeding, which will be released on Friday morning.