MYC Playoffs started tonight, 3/15, at the Waltham Rink featuring the U10 Major, U10 Minor I, U14 Major and U14 Mid North Divisions.
Melrose U10 I defeated a talented Arlington team 5-1. Melrose moves on to the Championship weekend and States, but Arlington still has something to smile about. Game was scoreless midway into the second period. Scoring: Melrose - Ella Saracco, unassisted; Linnea Kelley, Tess Martin; Tess Martin, unassisted; Jill Mattucci, Ella Saracco; Jill Mattucci, Ella Saracco. Arlington - Kathryn Anderson, unassisted.
Walpole U10 defeated Wellesley U10 II. Game was tied 1-1 after the first period. Walpole moves on to the Championship weekend. Scoring: Walpole - Gina Manganaro, Meredith Cronin; Kellie Popkin, unassisted; Kellie Popkin, Danae Reager; Kellie Popkin, unassisted. Wellesley - Madison Noble, Lauren Kehoe.
Manchester U14 downed Charlestown U14 in a game that had more penalties than goals. Manchester moves on. Charlestown's goalie, Ruby Johnson, played a spectacular game. Scoring: Manchester - Jacki Kinch, Angela Augusta, Hannah Cote; Ashley Zannini, unassisted; Hannah Cote, Angela Augusta; Ashley Zannini, Taylor Merrill. Charlestown - Nicole Giampa, Nicole Woods; Gabbie Mourousas, Mae Drucker; Nicole Giampa, Nicole Woods.
Natick U14 and Andover Gold U14 went scoreless until deep into the third period. Natick pulled out the 1-0 win and moves on. Both goalies were brilliant turning away shot after shot. Natick's Emily Harney earned the shutout. Scoring: Natick Comets - Meghan Doolan, Emily Shanno.
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Playdowns continued tonight at the Waltham Rink, 3/16, showcasing U10 Mid East, U12 Mid North I and U14 Major.
We said goodbye to Cambridge U10 as Reading U10 triumphed in a 2-0 win. Game was scoreless until deep into the 2nd period. Reading’s goalie, Linnane Brenna, earned the shutout. Reading moves on to the Championship weekend and States. Scoring: Reading – Jenna Seibold, Lilly Kurker, Ellie Richards; Lilly Kurker, Ainsley Cohen, Margaret Fennelly.
Gutsy Charlestown U12 defeated the talented Newton I team 5-3 and moves on. Newton was down by 3 goals deep into the 2nd period and came back to score twice. Both scored in the final minutes and Charlestown added an insurance goal with seconds remaining in the 3rd. Charlestown was charged with a trip on a Newton breakaway earning Newton a penalty shot. Newton’s Jaime Burke streaked from center ice and fired a great shot low, but C-Town’s goalie gloved it. We wish Newton I the best in the States. Scoring: Charlestown – Jackie Sindoris, unassisted; Rose Sullivan, unassisted; Jackie Sindoris, Annie McLaughlin, Rose Sullivan; Rose Sullivan, unassisted; Jackie Sindoris, Rose Sullivan. Newton – Sonya Klumpp, unassisted; Jordan Monbouquette, unassisted; Callie Richman, Jaime Burke.
Andover Blue U14 beat Reading Red 3-1in a thrilling game. Tied in the third period 1-1, Andover took the lead and Reading pulled their goalie. Andover scored on an empty net for an insurance goal. Andover moves on and we wish them well in the States. Scoring: Andover - Krista Toscano, Gabby Hindin, Emily Jia; Caroline Hartel, Melissa Newton; Rachel Hindin. Mikayla Panneton. Reading - Courtney Casey, Caroline Burke.
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A terrific night of hockey as MYC Playdowns continued at the Waltham Rink, 3/17, featuring U12 Mid North II, U14 Mid North and U14 Major.
Westwood U12 battled Winchester U12 and triumphed 5-0. Westood moves on and we wish them success in the States. Winchester never gave up and skated hard the entire 60 minutes. Congratulations to Winchester's U10 goalie, Madison Micciche, who filled in on short notice and stood very tall in the net. Winchester's future high school goalie! Scoring: Westwood - Niamh Maher, Waverly Jackson; Waverly Jackson, Kara Nelson; Kara Nelson, unassisted; Waverly Jackson, Laurel Orcutt; Waveryly Jackson, Katia Green.
Winchester U14 eliminated Lexington/Bedford U14 7-4. Winchester moves on, but both teams are in Springfield next weekend for the States and we wish them all the best. Lexington/Bedford fought hard, but couldn't turn away Winchester's scorers. Scoring: Winchester - Tori Carson, unassisted; Emma Goff, Samantha Ross; Samantha Ross, Tori Carson; Alaina Ewing, Liz McCarthy, Kathryn Turner; Samantha Ross, Tori Carson; Samantha Ross, Tori Carson; Alaina Ewing, unassisted. Lexington/Bedford - Kendal Brown, unassisted; Melissa Cusanello, Frida Nilsson; Frida Nilsson, unassisted; Rebecca Denning, Melissa Cusanello.
The game of the night and probably the whole playdowns was a complete dogfight (no offense intended to the girls re: dogs - these are beautiful girls) between the Natick Comets U14 and Westwood U14. #8 seed Comets, after defeating the #9 seed, met the #1 seed Westwood and scared the hell out of them. Yes, I mean that. The Comets were on fire once the puck was dropped in the first period and didn't let up. They skated their hearts out as did Westwood. It was the greatest game in MYC history. Both goalies were absolutely awesome. Game was tied in the 3rd period forcing an overtime. Three minutes plus into overtime Westwood scored the winning goal on a power play. Congratulations to the Comets for toughing out a rough season and giving Westwood a great game. Westwood moves on. The old men's league arriving early to skate at 10:00 pm lined up at the glass to watch the outcome. Scoring: Westwood - Siobhan Burke, Olivia Fay; Katie Horsfall, Catherine Barrett; OT - Catherine Barrett, Olivia Fay. Comets - Brittany Carter, Lucia Cavacini; Amanda McGoldrick.
Danvers U14, # 7 seed knocked out Norwood, # 2 seed in the U14 Major Division 5-4. Danvers moves on. We wish Norwood the best of luck as they move on to the States. Game was tied 3-3 mid 3rd period and Danvers scored with less than 5 minutes remaining. Congratulations to Danvers toughing out a mid season kick upstairs to the Major division. The old men's league stayed to watch this game, also. Who said girl's hockey was boring? Scoring: Danvers - Kristen McCarthy, Jillian Witwicki, Nicole Kamens; Madeline Guinee, Kristen McCarthy; Caitlin McBride, Nicole Kamens; Kristen McCarthy, ???'; Caitlin McBride, Kristen McCarthy. Norwood - Jenna Whelan, Sheila Carroll; Emily Kelly, Madyson Dwan; Emily Kelly, Danielle Hamilton; Nora Reyad, Madyson Dwan, Emily Kelly.
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Playdowns marched on tonight at the Waltham rink, 3/18, starting with the U10 Minor II mini playoff, U12 Mid North II and the second round of U14 Major.
Medford U10 defeated Winthrop U10 4-1, but both teams skated well and stormed the net when they finally got to the other end of the ice. I'm sure these players arrived in the delivery room wearing skates. Born to play hockey. Winthrop scored first, but Medford quickly answered. Get well and hurry back, Coach Allen. Medford faces off against Westwood II on Saturday and Winthrop plays Westwood II on Monday. Scoring: Medford - Gina Grasso, unassisted; Gina Grasso, unassisted, Gina Grasso, Kristen O'Keefe, Erin Allen, Elizabeth Lazzaro. Winthrop - Alyssa Ferrara, unassisted.
In a bit of a shocker, Charles River U12-4 knocked out Medford I U12 5-1. Penalties abounded. Medford certainly came to play, but Charles River was ready and waiting. Charles River's goalie, Kaitlyn Yong, turned in a terrific performance. Scoring: Charles River - Rose McGovern, Emily Brooks; Liz McKinnon, unassisted; Camille Kelley, Katie Abbott; Liz McKinnon, Katie Abbott; Katie Abbott, unassisted. Medford - Nicole Pucillo, Julianna Kennedy. (Julianna is a treasure - what a great kid)
Medford I U14 eliminated the Manchester Hurricanes U14 10 -0 in a game with more penalties than goals. Manchester's goalie, Lexi Tilton, played a great game. Medford hit the ice full speed and didn't stop until the final buzzer. Both Medford goalies, Kassi Abbott and Megan Messuri were awesome! Medford moves on in MYC playdowns and will be in Springfield for the States. Best of luck! Congratulations to Manchester for sticking with a tough MYC schedule while playing in several leagues. The ultimate road team. Scoring: Medford - Brittani Lanzilli, Maggie Flaherty; Kaleigh Finigan, Brittani Lanzilli; Brittani Lanzilli, unassited; Marissa Williams, Gabby Crugnale, Marissa Coit; Kaleigh Finigan, Carol Dimaiti; Gabby Crugnale, Marissa Coit; Marissa Williams, Brittany Stanton, Carol Dimaiti; Marissa Williams, unassisted; Brittani Lanzilli, unassisted; Adrienne Porrazzo, Brittani Lanzilli.
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MYC playdowns continued tonight at the Waltham rink, 3/19, highlighting U12 Minor, U12 Mid East and U14 Minor.
Because of a scheduling snafu with the Newton website, the Newton U12 II team had to forfeit their playdown game with Wellesley U12 II. Not so nice end to the season for Newton who toughed out a brutal season and we congratulate the players on their courage. Wellesley moves on to the Championship weekend. Thank you to the coaches and parents who were very understanding.
I bought extra ice for all our playdown games wishing/hoping for tie games and overtime. I got my wish tonight as Lexington/Bedford U12 and Danvers U12 tortured everyone in the rink with seven overtime periods. Tortured in a good way as everyone was hanging on every pass and shot. Game was tied 1-1 after regulation and a six-minute OT. After a two-minute 4 on 4 followed by five two-minute 3 on 3 OT periods, Danvers found the back of the net and will move on. Both teams skated hard the entire time and should sleep until noon on Saturday.The goalies stood on their heads. Congratulations to Lexington/Bedford and Danvers for toughing out a brutal schedule all season. The men's teams skating after our teams were enjoying our extra ice this week as we didn't use it. Not tonight!! Scoring: Danvers - Samantha Jenson, unassisted; Sarah Ryan, unassisted, OT. Lexington/Bedford - Kenna McLaughlin, Lauren Swift.
Wellesley U14 bumped out Medford II U14 and moves on after a 7-0 game. Medford's goalie, Jess Mitchell, was a force in the net, but Wellesley brought their game. Wellesley's goalie, Meghan King earned the shutout. In typical Medford hard-nose fashion, these girls never quit despite the score. Scoring: Wellesley - Shanna Hickman, Lauren Gottlieb; Alanna McDonough-Rice, Lauren Gottlieb; Caroline Brady, unassisted; Emily Mullin, Shanna Hickman; Francesca Hodge, unassisted; Francesca Hodge, ????; Shanna Hickman, unassisted.
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The music was blasting and the players were dancing on the ice, the bench and in the penalty box as playdown action continued at the Waltham rink, 3/20. Medford U10 won their second mini playoff game 6-0 vs Westwood II and secures a berth in the Championship weekend. Victoria Kennedy, Medford's goalie, earned a well deserved shutout. Westwood II peppered the net, but were denied. Scoring: Medford - Mia Price, Emma Brennan; Mia Price, unassisted; Gina Grasso, unassisted; Mia Price, unassisted, Gina Grasso, unassisted; Emma Brennan, Elizabeth Lazzaro.
Melrose U12 eliminated Walpole Lady Rebels U12 4-2 in the Mid South Division and moves on. Melrose was up by three goals in the 3rd period, but the Rebels scored two quick goals late in the period threatening a tie game. Melrose got the insurance goal with a minute left. Scoring: Melrose - Megan McGunigle, Samantha Shields; Kellianne Kendall, Madison Russell; Madison Russell, Alexis Barrett; Madison Russell, Devin Mullet, Kellianne Kendall. Walpole - Katie Mahoney, Sydney Horgan; Elizabeth DuFault, Sarah Jarbeau.
The Nashua Panthers U12 knocked out H/P/NA Panthers U12 5-2 in a penalty-laden game and moves ahead . A very hard fought game by two very scrappy, talented teams. Down 5-1 in the 3rd period, H/P/NA never gave up. Both goalies were outstanding. Scoring: Nashua - Cora Rogers, Ashley Silva; Jamie Peterson, Krista Ferrari; Jamie Peterson, unassisted; Jamie Peterson, unassisted, Cora Rogers, Cailin Dix; H/P/NA - Morgan DiBenedetto, Gabi Hillner; Erin Daly, unassisted.
The U12 Mid North division featured two wildly competetive teams who skated with everything they had to a 0-0 regulation time tie. Arlington U12 finally eliminated Manchester U12 scoring with a minute and a half left in overtime on a penalty kill. Both goalies - Arlington's Katherine Crane, who earned a shutout, and Manchester's twin bill Lauren Calnan and Sarah Plourde were phenomenal. Arlington moves ahead. Scoring: Lily Santonelli, unassisted.
The U14 Major said goodbye to a talented Walpole Lady Rebels team defeated by the Nighthawks I 3-2 in another overtime game. The Nighthawks move on to face Medford I. Both teams played a very physical game and were hampered by penalties throughout. The Nighthawks finally scored with 2 minutes left in overtime to break the tie. Both goalies - Rebels' Kaylin Hallet and Nighthawk's Nicollette SanClemente were terrific. Scoring: Nighthawks - Angela Bergeron, unassisted; Bailey Miller, unassisted; Jessica Moran, Amanda St. Laurent in O.T. Walpole - Delaney Harrop, Jessica Joyce; Casey Chadkowski, ????
Arlington U14 defeated ECGH I U14 in a fast-paced game in the U14 Mid North division. Both teams hit the ice set to win fueled by determination, candy and Announcer Guy's music. Arlington scored first quickly followed by three ECGH goals all in the 2nd period. Arlington answered scoring four goals to shut the door on ECGH. Arlington moves on. The ice had to be cleaned twice after this game. Scoring: Arlington - Carolyn Woodin, Eva Colarusso; Eva Colarusso, Carolyn Woodin; Murphy Curren, Carolyn Woodin; Eva Colarusso, Carolyn Woodin; Eva Colarusso, unassisted. ECGH - Addie Robertson, Annika Witt; ????, Annika Witt; Allison Coukos, Addie Robertson.
Another rough game featuring more penalties than goals as the Nighthawks II U14 defeated Reading White U14 1-0 in the U14 Mid South division. Both teams came out gunning for a victory and battled to the end. The Nighthawks finally scored the only goal of the game with thirty seconds remaining in the 7th overtime period and moves on. There is no ice left at the Waltham rink...down to concrete. A fantastic game that could have gone on until midnight. The Nighthawks' II goalie, Olivia MGourty, securing the shutout, and Reading White's goalie, Lauren Hennessey were unbelievable. Stand on their head game. Scoring: Nighthawks - Kylee Lawrence, unassisted.
In U14 Mid North division action, the Nashua Panthers downed Waltham U14 3-2 and lives to play again. Another tied game by the 3rd period and both teams were frantically trying to score and win. Nashua finally prevailed with less than 30 seconds remaining in regulation time. Scoring: Nashua - Cassandra Circelli, unassisted; ????, Victoria Shaw; Brooke Pearson, Ashley Berniche. Waltham - Ashley Sampson, Kathleen McLaughlin; Laura Schmidlein.
By the time Stoneham U14 and Charles River U14-4 hit the ice for their game after all the overtime games, the snack bar was out of food and Announcer Guy had gone home. They didn't look like they lost any energy waiting around. Both teams battled hard for a berth in the second round crashing the nets and into each other. Stoneham prevailed knocking out Charles River 2-0. Stoneham's goalie, Samantha Gendall earned a hard fought shutout. Scoring: Stoneham - Amanda Navarro, unassisted; Chelsea Burridge, Kayla LaPierre.
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MYC playdowns continued early Sunday morning, 3/21, at the Waltham rink. Parents arrived yawning, but the girls were ready to go. Please pass the coffee.
The U10 Mid North division featured Winchester U10 vs Belmont U10 in a low scoring game in which both goalies dominated. Belmont scored the only goal of the game in the second period and moves on to the next round. Scoring: Belmont - Anna Alibrandi, Bridget Gardiner.
Lynnfield U10 faced off against Charles River U8 in U10 Minor I action. Lynnfield struck first in the 1st period with less than a minute to go. The game was 1-0 until the 3rd period when Charles River answered scoring three. Charles River earns a berth in the Championship weekend vs Walpole. Congratulations to Lynnfield in their inagural season with MYC. Great season, girls! Scoring: Charles River - Caroline Kinghorn, unassisted; Grace Dore, unassisted; Elizabeth Phalen, unassisted. Lynnfield - Amanda Hatfield, Ashley Barrett, Abigail Buckley.
Lynnfield U10 Coneheads....Adorable!!
Stoneham U12 and old pal Lynnfield U12, Mid South, started out having a friendly game until both realized that only the winning team would move on to the Championship weekend. Lynnfield turned on the jets and kicked Stoneham to the curb. Figuratively. Game was 2-1, Lynnfield, after the 1st and they added an insurance goal in the 2nd and 3rd periods ending the game 4-1. Scoring: Lynnfield - Kelly McCarthy, Sam Callahan; Kelly MCarthy, unassisted; Sam Callahan, Gaby Floramo; Sam Callahan, Nicole Casaletto. Stoneham - Ashley Doherty, Sophia Whittaker.
Marching on in the U12 Mid South, the Natick Comets II eliminated Melrose in a 3-0 upset. Game was scoreless until the 2nd period when the Comets did all the damage earning a spot in the Finals. Melrose fought hard to the end, but couldn't turn away the Comet's scorers. Comet's goalie, Anna Lerch, earned the shutout. Scoring: Natick - Juliette Bendheim, Ellen Strang, Rachel Frankenfield; Juliette Bendheim, Sarah Jane Graham, Laura Sears; Sarah Jane Graham, unassisted.
After torturing everyone in the rink on Friday with 7 overtime periods eventually pulling out a win, Danvers U12 again went 4 overtime periods vs Marblehead tonight. Quit is not in the Danvers girl's vocabulary. Game was tied 3-3 heading into overtime as Marblehead scored the equalizer with a minute to go in the 3rd. Both teams used every inch of the ice trying to gain a scoring advantage and wouldn't back down. Marblehead finally ended it scoring with less than a minute to go in the 4th overtime and secured a berth in the Championships. Congratulations to Danvers for toughing out a very rough schedule throughout the season. Scoring: Marblehead - Meg Gray, unassisted; Alanna Burke, unassisted; Meg Gray, Brittany Lydon, #25 ??; Ashley Wojewodzic, unassisted. Danvers - Samantha Jenson, Sarah Ryan; Samantha Jenson, unassisted; Abby Dirks, Samantha Jenson,Sarah Ryan.
Acton/Boxboro/Concord/Carlisle U12 fought hard against the Nighthawks U12, but were eliminated 3-0 in the U12 Mid East division. The Nighthawks move on to the Champshionship weekend vs Marblehead. A/B/C/C's goalie, Melissa Bambery, played a great game holding the Nighthawks scorers at bay until the very end of the 1st and 3rd periods. Nighthawks goalie, Shelby Guinard, earned the shutout. Scoring: Nighthawks - Elizabeth Muirhead, unassisted; Aly Maynard, Jillian Magliano; Carly LeBlanc, unassisted.
After a quick run to Costco for more candy, the playdowns resumed.
The Nashua Panthers U12 blanked Arlington U12 3-0 in the Mid North division in a very physical game and moves on to the Championship weekend. Nashua's goalie, Cici Huyck, turned away the talented Arlington scorers to earn the shutout. Score was 0-0 until deep into the 2nd period. Scoring: Nashua - Jamie Peterson, unassisted; #55 ??, Hannah McGrath; Jamie Peterson, Krista Ferrari, #34 ??
Medfield was eliminated by Wellesley in the U14 Minor division by a score of 3-0. The Medfield girls have come a long way since the beginning of the season, but couldn't deny Wellesley's snipers. Meghan King, Wellesley's brick wall goalie, earned the shutout. Wellesley moves on to the Championship weekend. Medfield's goalie, Lauren Tschirch, didn't allow a goal after the 2nd period despite being peppered with shots from Wellesley. Scoring: Wellesley - Shanna Hickman, unassisted; Shanna Hickman, Alanna McDonough-Rice, Taylor Collins; Shanna Hickman, unassisted.
Another body bashing game between Winchester II U14 and ECGH II U14 featuring more penalties than goals. Winchester came out on top out-scoring ECGH 5-1and moves on in the U14 Minor division. The ECGH goalie tried her best, but was overwhelmed by Winchester's scorers. Scoring: Alicia Marx, unassisted; Megan Lepore, unassisted; Kathryn Addonizio, unassisted; Megan Lepore, unassisted; Alexis Miller, Morgan Mahoney, Emily Surabian. ECGH - Demetria Lyons, unassisted.
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The Hickey Palace in Waltham continued hosting the MYC playdowns on 3/22 featuring U14 Mid South, U14 Minor, U12 Major and U10 Minor II.
The final game in the U10 mini playoff series, which would determine the second team going to Championship weekend to face Medford, featured Winthrop and Westwood. Game was tied after the 1st period 1-1, but Winthrop charged ahead in the 2nd to break open the score 6-1. Westwood scored their second goal with less than a minute remaining in the 3rd on a comeback bid, but time wouldn't permit. Winthrop vs Medford on Championship weekend. Scoring: Winthrop - Caroline O'Keefe, Kayla Yarrow; Kayla Yarrow, Caroline O'Keefe; McKayla Norris, unassisted; Kayla Yarrow, unassisted; Kayla Yarrow, Caroline O'Keefe; Emelia Carleton, unassisted. Westwood - Ellen McGough, unassisted; Ellen McGough, Lauren Witherell.
Wellesley I U12 sent home Cambridge U12 in a hard fought game by two very talented and tired teams. Both teams competed in the States in Springfield playing multiple games over the weekend. Cambridge scored two in the 1st period and one in the 2nd, but Wellesley countered with three to tie the game. With 14 seconds remaining in the 3rd, Wellesley scored and moves on in the divisional play. This was a great game and both teams deserve respect for their sheer guts and determination playing on rubber legs. Scoring: Wellesley - Cecily Docktor, Keely Corscadden, Missy Segall; Keely Corscadden, Cecily Docktor,Toni Abate; Jodie Lunger, Caroline Allieri, Eliza Perry; Cecily Docktor, Keely Corscadden. Cambridge - Sarah Nowiszewski, Clare Lonergan; Vanessa VanBuskirk, Tara Jones-Knight; Vanessa VanBuskirk, unassisted.
We said goodbye to the plucky Winchester II U14 team, missing many skaters due to a school trip, after being blanked by the Walpole Lady Jr. Rebels II team 3-0. Winchester fought hard crashing the net at every opportunity, but Walpole's goalie, Laurie Mazza, earned a difficult shutout. Walpole earns a berth at Championship weekend. Scoring: Walpole - Grace Crowell, unassisted; Sheelagh Walsh, Katie Houser; Lauren Hirshom, Reilly Curtin, Sheelagh Walsh.
Stoneham U14 played their way in to Championship weekend after defeating first-year Framingham U14 4-0. Bit of a chippy game, but both teams wanted badly to win. Stoneham's goalie, Sam Gendall, earned a great shutout turning away 314 shots. Maybe it just seemed like that; I lost count. Congratulations to Framingham on a great inaugural season. Scoring: Stoneham - Sarah Carucci, Gabriella Moscato; Amanda Navarro, unassisted; Gabriella Moscato, Sarah Carucci; Gabriella Moscato, Emily DelloRusso.
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Girl's teams continue to pour in to the Waltham rink, 3/23, for playdown games for U10 Major, U12 Mid North I, U12 Major and U14 Major. Yeah, Girls!!
Waltham U10, just back from the States weekend in Springfield, tried to rally against the powerful Seacoast Lightning after falling behind 3-1 in the 1st period. Missing quite a few players Waltham couldn't dig out of the hole, but never gave up even being down 6-3. Seacoast takes the last spot in the U10 Major divison at Championship weekend. Scoring: Seacoast - Samantha Kelleher, unassisted; Molly Laliberty, Taylor Dudek; Molly Laliberty, unassisted; Katelyn Mello, unassisted; Bridget Babcock, MacKenzie Mallett; Samantha Kelleher, unassisted. Waltham - Karly Aquirre, unassisted; Karly Aquirre, unassisted; Karly Aquirre, Megan Fiske.
Charlestown U12 arrived for their second playdown game vs Norwood U12 and both teams hit the ice gunning for a win. Game was tied 2-2 late in the 3rd period and we were prepared for OT. Norwood scored two quick goals mid way through the 1st and the Townies answered with two in the 3rd. Norwood scored the go-ahead goal with half a minute left on the clock in the 3rd earning the spot at Championship weekend. It was another great game. Nice to see Pat Sullivan back on the bench for the Townies. Scoring: Norwood - Lisa Moynihan, Erin Kelly; Samantha Hayes, unassisted; Isabella Aspinwall, unassisted. Charlestown - Rose Sullivan, Jackie Sindoris; Jackie Sindoris, unassisted.
Belmont U12, Mass Hockey State Champions, faced off tonight in the U12 Major division against the Natick Comets I U12. Belmont defeated the Comets at the States to earn the title, but the rivaly continues with MYC playdowns. After a grueling weekend in Springfield, I'm sure the girls would have wanted to be anywhere else instead of a rink. But, to each team's credit, they played a terrific game. Both teams were tied ending the 1st period and continued into the 3rd. The Comets scored the winning goal with less than 30 seconds remaining in the 3rd and will advance to the Championship weekend. A terrific game by both teams. Scoring: Comets - Sophie Grossbaum, Ainsley Gilbard; Sara Murphy, unassisted. Belmont - Pauline Ayer, Isabelle Nolan.
Mass Hockey State Champions, Medford I U14, limped into the Hickey Palace to play the Nighthawks I U14 tonight. After a weekend packed with games for Medford in Springfield, they met the Nighthawks going full speed as usual. Who needs a good night's sleep during hockey season? The Nighthawks were amazing, but couldn't deny the Medford scoring machine, defense, and brickwall goalie, Megan Messuri, falling to Medford 4-1. Medford moves on to the Championship weekend. Scoring: Medford - Kaleigh Finigan, Brit Lanzilli; Brit Lanzilli, unassisted; Brit Lanzilli, unassisted; Carol Dimaiti, unassisted. Nighthawks - Andrea Fahey, Lisa Kilroy, Jessica Moran.
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Mark Hickey had the music blasting tonight at the Waltham rink, 3/24, for MYC playdowns. U12 Mid North II, U12 Major and U14 Mid North skated tonight for Championship berths. Another great night of girl's hockey.
Reading U12 arrived to face off against Charles River U12-4 after a tough weekend in Springfield in the States. Both teams were scoreless after the 1st, but Reading put one on the board during the 2nd period to lead 1-0. Charles River answered scoring two in the 3rd period to move on to Championship weekend. Both goalies, Reading's Jessica Strack and Charles River's Kaitlyn Yong, were awesome!! Scoring: Charles River - Rose McGovern, Sophie Wilder; Liz McKinnon, Sophie Wilder. Reading - Olivia Hardy, Katie Costa, Michaela Boyle.
Penalties dominated the game between Wellesley I U12 and Andover Blue U12, both fighting for a spot in MYC Championship weekend and coming off States weekend. Perfectly amiable towns, but on the ice...it's a different story. Wellesley struck first in the 1st, answered quickly by Andover in the 2nd. Score was tied 1-1 until deep into the 3rd period when Wellesley scored twice to put the game out of reach for Andover. A great game. Wellesley earns their place at Championship weekend. Both goalies, Wellesley's Jane Hamel, and Andover's Meghan Johnson, were terrific! Scoring: Wellesley - Cecily Docktor, #4??, Sophie Vernon; Cecily Docktor, Carley Boyle; Carley Boyle, Cecily Docktor, Keely Corscadden. Andover - Bella Piscatelli. Caroline Hughes, Michelle Durling.
In U14 Mid North action, both Nashua and Winchester I arrived for their second game of MYC playdowns hoping for a win to advance to the finals. The Nashua girls were pumped and ready, munching candy and hugging each other as the coaches were trying to shoo them into the locker room for a very serious game. Game was tied midway throught the 3rd period, but Nashua pulled away scoring two in the 3rd. Winchester answered scoring one in the 3rd with 30 seconds on the clock, but not enough time to secure the win. Nashua earned a well-deserved spot at Championship weekend. Congratulations to Winchester's goalie, Vicki Wallace, for turning in a tremendous performance. Scoring: Nashua - Amanda Giles, unassited; Caree Pitts, Megan Nanan; Megan Nanan, Victoria Shaw. Winchester - Emma Goff, Kathryn Turner; Kathryn Turner, Alicia Marx, Julia Olsen.
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Chicks with sticks flooded the Waltham rink tonight, 3/25, full of energy and attitude eager to dive into their playdown games for U10 Mid North, U12 Mid North II, U14 Major and U14 Mid North. Only the parents looked tired, but revived once the games got underway.
First up was Westwood I U10 vs Wellesley I U10 playing their first and only playdown game to decide which team goes on to Championship weekend. Both teams played a grueling schedule during States and should have been tired and grumpy...but they weren't to their credit. Westwood scored a goal in each period to eliminate Wellesley 3-0 and moves on to Championship weekend. Wellesley's goalie, Katie Hawkinson, had a "stand on her head" game, but couldn't deny Westwood's snipers. Westwood's goalie, Erin Fallon earns a well deserved shutout. Scoring: Westwood - Samantha Nelson, Katherine Keith; Francesca DeVingo, Samantha Nelson; Samantha Nelson, Bridgette Goss, Jinah Cappuccino.
Another low scoring, very close game in the U12 Mid North II division between Westwood and Andover Gold. Both teams were fighting for a spot in Championship weekend and Andover Gold prevailed 1-0. Game was tied 0-0 half way through the 2nd period when Andover scored the only goal of the game. Westwood kept Andover off the board after the goal, but couldn't retaliate. Westwood's goalie, Katia Green was spectacular letting up only one goal under extreme pressure. Andover's goalie, Caty Flagg earned a well deserved shutout. Scoring: Andover Gold - Sarah Wright, Anabelle Barrett, Meghan Galanos.
In U14 Major action, Danvers and Andover Blue faced off in each team's second playdown game to decide who goes to Championship weekend. Danvers, after being kicked upstairs to the Major division mid way through the season, took care of business eliminating Andover 4-1. Danvers faces Medford I at Championship weekend. Girls...get your skates sharpened. Scoring: Danvers - Jillian Witwicki, unassisted; Jillian Witwicki, Caitlin McBride; Jillian Witwicki, Rachel Trocchi; Kristen McCarthy, Rachel Ingraham.
There have been several games these past two weeks that would qualify as MYC's most memorable games...Natick U14 vs Westwood U14, Danvers U14 vs Westwood U14, Danvers U12, the extreme OT kings, Natick U12 vs Belmont U12... all our States teams coming back to play with heart and guts...but, tonight's last game between Westwood U14 and Arlington U14 was the ultimate. Both teams skipped into the rink lighthearted, smiling, munching on candy, body slamming/hugging each other, but then they hit the ice. This was the most fast-paced, competitive game yet. Arington scored first in the 1st period for the only goal of the game. Both teams pressured the other's goalie relentlessly, but they had "stand on your head" games. It was spectacular. Both teams deserve to go to Championship weekend, but only one can. This is when I hate my job. Westwood's goalie, Siobhan Burke, turned in an absolutely wonderful performance. I hope her high school coach was in the stands. Arlington's goalie, Katie Gilligan, was outstanding denying every effort Westwood took to score, and they took plenty. Arlington moves to Championship weekend. Scoring: Arlington - Casey Shea, Madison Bailey.
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Sadly, the final games of the MYC playdowns to determine Championship weekend teams came to an end tonight, 3/26, at the Waltham rink. U10 Mid East, U10 Mid North and U14 Mid South finished off the 12-day schedule.
The Natick Comets U10 faced Lexington/Bedford U10 for the final spot in the Mid East division. After no score in the 1st period, Lexington/Bedford and theComets were locked in a 2-2 tie in the 2nd. Neither team would give an inch and ended regulation time still tied 2-2. Five minutes into OT the Comets scored the go-ahead goal to secure a spot in Championship weekend. Both goalies, Comet's, Alexis Reisner, and L/B's, Nicki Antonoff, were brick walls. Scoring: Natick Comets - Kathryn Elliott, Kaitlyn Bradshaw; Molly Burnes, unassisted; Rebecca Antonelli, unassisted. Lexington/Bedford - Sydney Farrell, unassisted, Victoria Cusanello, Sydney Farrell.
We said goodbye to State's contender Charlestown U10 as Belmont U10 scored the extra goal to send them home and secure their own place in Championship weekend for U10 Mid North. Belmont scored twice in the 2nd period, but Charlestown quickly evened the score with a goal in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Belmont capped the win with less than 10 seconds left in the 3rd. Charlestown was playing with a severely depleted bench dressing only nine players. Good thing both teams arrived an hour early as it took that long for them to sign in, convert their birth dates to numerical and load up on sugar. :-D Scoring: Belmont - Bridget Gardiner, Aurora Fidler; Aurora Fidler, unassisted (a beautiful name - I meant that, Aurora); Aurora Fidler, Bridget Gardiner. Charlestown - Charisse Flannagan, Micaela Sindoris; Charisse Flannagan, Riley Cote.
State's contender Melrose U14 eliminated the Nighthawks II U14 in a very close game more physical than skillful. Hey, I call 'em as I see 'em. Don't sue me. Melrose found the back of the net three times by the 3rd period before the Nighthawks finally scored. Melrose earned the final spot in Championship weekend for the U14 Mid South. Scoring: Melrose - Sophia Duplin, Haley Gorman; Sophia Duplin, Haley Gorman; Katie Shreenan, Breana Porcello, Jessica D'Entremont. Nighthawks - Kylee Lawrence, unassisted.
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CHAMPIONSHIP SATURDAY
The girls, ready to go, beat me to the rink today in U10 Minor II action featuring Medford and Winthrop for the MYC Championship. Both teams were on fire, passing, crashing the net and annoying the heck out of each other. Winthrop scored three in the first and Medford rebounded scoring one, but couldn't catch up. Winthrop scored an insurance goal late in the 2nd to put the game away and secure the MYC Championship. Congratulations to Winthop on the Championship and to Medford on the Finalist. Scoring: Winthrop - Caroline O'Keefe, unassisted; McKayla Norris, unassisted; Kayla Yarrow, Caroline O'Keefe, Emma Carney; Caroline O'Keefe, Isabella Perrotti, #73??. Medford - Jessica Crugnale, Mia Raso, #16 ??.
The Natick Comets U12 II eagerly anticipated meeting the Lynnfield U12 team on the ice for the MYC Championship and the game didn't disappoint anyone. Lynnfield scored in the 1st period, but Natick quickly answered and their sniper put another one up on the scoreboard for the go-ahead. Lynnfield scored twice in the 2nd to make it 3-2, but the Comets would not back down scoring the equalizer in the 3rd. Lynnfield broke the tie mid 3rd period to win the Championship. Congratulations to Lynnfield on the Championship and to the Natick Comets on the Finalist. Scoring: Lynnfield - Christina Castadoro, unassisted; Samantha Callahan, unassisted; Samantha Callahan, unassisted; Nicole Casaletto, Gabriella Floramo, Samantha Callahan. Natick Comets - Sarah Jane Graham, Hannah Alford; Sarah Jane Graham, Greer Brodie-Hall, Sara Price; Kathryn Johnston, Laura Sears.
In U10 Mid East action, Reading earned the crown by defeating the Natick Comets 3-1in a pretty rough game. Both teams wanted the win and the competition was fierce. Reading scored three goals by the end of the 2nd period. The Comets' bid for a comeback fell a little short after finding the net only once in the 3rd period. Congratulations to Reading on the Championship and to the Natick Comets on the Finalist. Scoring: Reading - Katelyn Costello, Haley Roy; Ainsley Cohen, Kat Paradis, Margaret Fennelly; Lilly Kurker, Haley Roy. Natick Comets - Madeline Metcalf, Kathryn Elliott.
The Nighthawks U12 defeated the Marblehead Hollyhocks 2-0 in a close game that could have gone either way in the U12 Mid East division. Scoring once in the 1st and again in the 2nd period, the Nighthawks kept a strong Hollyhocks team off the board the entire game. Marblehead pressured the NIghthawk's goalie, Shelby Guinard, relentlessly, but couldn't penetrate. The Hollyhock's goalie, Brooks Keough, kept the high scoring Nighthawks to two goals. Congratulations to the Nighthawks on the Championship and to Marblehead on the Finalist. Scoring: Nighthawks - Haley Cooper, Michelle Charest, Carly LeBlanc; Haley Cooper, Megan Holmes,. Elizabeth Muirhead.
The U12 Mid North II division featured Charles River and Andover Gold in a game that kept the referees very busy. Chicks with sticks are more effective on the ice than in the penalty box. Charles River scored two quick goals mid 1st period and Andover Gold answered finding the net with a minute to go. Charles River scored their insurance goal mid 2nd to go ahead 3-1. The goalies, Charles River's Kaitlyn Yong, and Andover Gold's Caty Flagg, dominated the rest of the game allowing nothing in their nets. Congratulations to Charles River U12-4 on the Championship and to Andover Gold U12 on the Finalist. Scoring: Charles River - Camille Kelley, unassisted; Sophie Wilder, Karina McAdam; Liz McKinnon, Sophie Wilder, Rose McGovern. Andover Gold - Maria Cortner, Caitlin Rosenbaum.
The Norwood Nuggets U12 girls arrived at the Waltham rink ready to take care of business, but the Nashua Panthers U12 girls showed up earlier and snagged the better locker room. On the ice, locker rooms didn't matter. Norwood scored in the 1st and 2nd periods to take the lead, but Nashua roared back scoring one in the 2nd and tried hard for the equalizer, but couldn't get it. Norwood put the game out of contention scoring two in the 3rd period. Nashua never gave up and found the net with two seconds to go in the 3rd. Congratulations to the Norwood Nuggets U12 on the Championship and to the Nashua Panthers U12 on the Finalist. Scoring: Norwood - Lisa Moynihan, Erin Kelly; Abigail Glaser, Courtney Sullivan, Tayler Fraser; Samantha Hayes, Lisa Moynihan; Sydney MacQuilken, Lisa Moynihan. Nashua - Jamie Peterson, Alexa Popp; Jamie Peterson, Cora Rogers, Cailin Dix.
Wellesley and Walpole II faced off in U14 Minor action on Championship Saturday and the referees enjoyed a polite game between both teams. A very low scoring game as both goalies, Wellesley's Megan King, and Walpole's Laurie Mazza, handled their nets with skill and guts. Wellesley put two on the board by the 2nd period to take the lead. Walpole launched a comeback bid early in the 3rd, but could only score one. The goalies were the heros in this game. Congratulations to Wellesley U14 on the Championship and to the Walpole II U14 Jr. Lady Raiders on the Finalist. Scoring: Wellesley - Shanna Hickman, unassisted; Shanna Hickman, Margaret McKenna. Walpole - Jillian McGrath, Katherine Cashman.
The showdown between Stoneham and Melrose in the U14 Mid South division was a complete knock down, drag out, old school hockey war. Both goalies guarded their nets with absolute focus ensuring a low scoring game. Melrose's goalie, Meghan Woodworth, was borrowed from the Melrose U12 team (the U12 team lost in the playdowns), and was "stand on your head" terrific. Stoneham's goalie, Samantha Gendall, didn't have her usual stellar game as she took it to a higher level. She was outstanding. Melrose scored twice in the 1st period to gain the lead. Stoneham held Melrose scoreless the rest of the game and added two goals to tie the game in the 3rd. Melrose scored mid way through the first OT period to win the Championship. What a game! Congratulations to Melrose U14 on the Championship and to Stoneham U14 on the Finalist. Scoring: Melrose - Haley Gorman, Kayla Mattucci; Haley Gorman, unassisted; Haley Gorman, #8 ???. Stoneham - Amanda Navarro, #???; Amanda Navarro, Lauren Sullivan.
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CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Mark Hickey, MYCGL's Announcer Guy, jogged into the Waltham rink early this morning, 3/28, for the final seven games of Championship weekend carrying the biggest cup of Dunkin Donuts coffee I have ever seen. Did anyone notice him dancing in the scorekeeper's booth during the warmups for the third game?
First game of the morning pitted two very tough U8 teams playing in the U10 division...Charles River and Walpole Lady Jr. Rebels. Both teams have been battling each other all season in very close games and this game was no exception. Tied 0-0 until mid way through the 2nd period, Charles River scored the only goal of the game. The Lady Jr. Rebels crashed the net countless times, but Charles River's goalie, Hayley Parrish, was a brick wall. Walpole's goalie, Julie Salvaggio, played a spectacular game, as well. Congratulations to Charles River on the Championship and to the Walpole Lady Jr. Rebels on the Finalist. Scoring: Charles River - Tatiana Rachlin, Melissa Strauss.
U10 Mid North was up next featuring Belmont and Westwood I. Both teams bounced from Upper to Mid during the season and gained skills and confidence to face off against each other in the Championships. Westwood scored first midway through the 1st period and Belmont answered in the 2nd to tie the game. Westwood struck again mid 3rd period for the go-ahead goal, but Belmont tied the game again with a minute to go. Westwood scored the winning goal with two minutes left in OT. A terrific game by both teams and I'm sure the parents have no fingernails left. Both goalies, Belmont's Kim Vetrano, and Westwood I's Erin Fallon, were key players in this game. Congratulations to Westwood I on the Championship and to Belmont on the Finalist. Scoring: Westwood I - Samantha Nelson, Jinah Cappuccino; Samantha Nelson, unassisted; Samantha Nelson, unassisted. Belmont - Aurora Fidler, Bridget Gardiner; Eavan DiGiovanni, unassisted.
Wellesley II U12 faced off against Winthrop U12, the top seed in the U12 Minor division, and both teams had a great game. Winthrop scored first early in the 1st period, but Wellesley tied the score early in the 2nd period. Wellesley's snipers scored again in the 2nd and twice in the 3rd to put the game out of reach for Winthrop. Both goalies were spectacular. Congratulations to Wellesley II on the Championship and to Winthrop on the Finalist. Scoring: Wellesley - Sarah Krier, Eliza Keene; Sarah Kavoogian, Katherine Lempres, Emily Notman; Emily Notman, Sarah Kavoogian, Emma Martin; Kathryn Wilson, unassisted. Winthrop - Ashley Miles, Abigal Carlton, Kira Iacopucci.
In U10 Major action, State's contender, Melrose I, met the Seacoast Lightning in a dramatic game that wouldn't end. Game was tied 0-0 throughout regulation time as both teams wanted the Championship and wouldn't give up playing old school hockey throughout. With less than two minutes to go in the first OT, Seacoast scored the winning goal. A heartbreaker for Melrose coming off States. Both goalies played "stand on your head" games...Melrose's Hannah Aveni, and Seacoast's Megan Fiske. Congratulations to Seacoast Lightning on the Championship and to Melrose I on the Finalist. Scoring: Seacoast - Bridget Babcock, MacKenzie Mallett.
State's contenders Wellesley I U12 and the Natick Comets I U12 met on the ice this afternoon to continue their league rivalry. Both teams ignored the States outcome and came to battle each other with skill and scoring. All the fans in the stands were treated to both with three OT periods. Wellesley found the net early in the 1st period, but the Comets tied with less than 30 seconds to play. The Comet's snipers unloaded in the 2nd going up by two. Wellesley retaliated scoring two to tie the game and send it into overtime. Three OT's. Both goalies were absolutely awesome - Wellesely's Jane Hamel, and Comet's Michelle Ryder. The Natick Comets scored with a minute to play in the third OT capturing the title. Congratulations to the Natick Comets I U12 for the Championship and to Wellesley I U12 for the Finalist. Scoring: Comets - Sarah Goss, unassisted; Ainsley Gilbard, unassisted; Leah White, Gianna Fargnoli, Sara Murphy; Leah White, Alyssa Lilly. Wellesley - Carley Boyle, Caroline Allieri; Keely Corscadden, Cecily Docktor, Missy Segall; Carley Boyle, Missy Segall.
The Nashua Panthers, triumphant over both Waltham and Winchester I in League playdowns, earned a hard fought berth into the U14 Mid North division Championship game against Arlington. The Panthers, an ultimate road team in our league, found the back of the net early in the 1st period, but Arlington quickly answered scoring the equalizer and go-ahead. Alrington again scored to move ahead 3-1mid 2nd. Nashua's snipers lit the lamp again in the 3rd, but Arlington shut them down with two goals in the 3rd. The Panthers played lights-out despite the score. Congratulations to Arlington U14 on the Championship and to the Nashua Panthers U14 on the Finalist. Scoring: Arlington - Carolyn Woodin, Murphy Curran, Rachel Smith; Carolyn Woodin, Madison Bailey; Carolyn Woodin, Madison Bailey, Murphy Curran; Carolyn Woodin, Murphy Curran, Kaitlyn McCarthy; Carolyn Woodin, unassisted. Panthers - Amanda Giles, Erin Smith; Amanda Giles, unassisted.
In the final game of MYC Championship weekend, Mass Hockey State Champions Medford I U14 arrived at the rink with a well deserved swagger, but Danvers U14 was determined to give them a game, and they did. Danvers eliminated two strong and talented teams, Norwood and Andover Blue, to play Medford in the Championship game. Danvers netted the first goal mid 1st period and kept Medford off the board until the 2nd period. Medford, despite being the State Champs, realized Danvers wouldn't back down and wouldn't give up. They didn't even though Medford scored the go-ahead goal late 2nd period. This was a fabulous game with Danvers pressuring Medford every second and crashing the net trying to score the equalizer. Medford scored an empty net insurance goal late 3rd period to secure a Championship crown. The goalies for both teams were outstanding - Danver's Julia Mini and Medford's Megan Messuri and Kassi Abbott. Congratulations to Medford I U14 on the Championship and to Danvers U14 on the Finalist. Scoring: Medford - Kaleigh Finigan, Brittani Lanzilli; Brittani Lanzilli, Kaleigh Finigan; Gabby Crugnale, Brittani Lanzilli, Kaleigh Finigan. Danvers - Jillian Witwicki, Caitlin McBride, Kristen McCarthy.
Medford I U14, State Champions, made MYCGL history tonight being the first team to win a State Championship as well as an MYCGL League Championship. Congratulations, girls and Coach Lanzilli!!
81 teams participated in the MYCGL playdowns and, of that, 30 teams played in the Finals. 1200 -1300 girls skated at the Waltham rink over the past two weeks. 1200 -1300 girls playing hockey...WOW...a beautiful thing!
Thank you for being so patient on my slow updating of game blogs. Real life hit me in the face once I got home after being at the rink for two plus weeks. Because some parents and coaches didn't approve of my game blogs, I won't be doing this next season. Game scores will be all that will be shown.
