Coupled with unfaltering dedication and the support of enthusiastic Raiders fans, varsity girls ice hockey won another victory in the third playoff round in the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) state tournament.The team will advance to the state championships at the TD Garden on March 15 at 8:15 PM. The team’s current record is 19-2-3.
Reaching the state championships is the result of the girls team channeling focus and having unwavering commitment during practices. “We have really been preparing the whole season. These past few weeks we have been working especially hard at practice to make sure we are ready to play,” said Captain Meghan King ’15. The preparation did not go untested, as the team won the third playoff game in overtime.
Even though practice and dedication are paramount to the team, energy and support on the team are just as important. “My favorite part of playoffs is definitely the team energy. Everybody has so much energy before every game and we all want to win. We really come together as a team during playoffs, all the little things come together and everybody is so supportive for one another,” said left wing Kiely Noonan ’16.
The hard work and dedication has paid off this season, and the end goal is in sight. “I am looking forward to getting the chance to play in the garden again. Getting back to the garden (and winning) is the ultimate goal [for the team], ” said King.
The playoffs is a time of pride and excitement for the girls hockey team.
“We are very proud of what the team has been able to accomplish so far this year. We play a tough regular season schedule and did great and have played very well so far in the tournament. To be able to get back to the Garden and play in the Finals is no easy task,” said athletic director John Brown.
The team will play Falmouth high school in the state final at TD Garden in Boston. The girls hockey team would like to thank fans for their support: “The support from the Raider fans has been unreal this year!” said King.
(Bryanna Guarnieri ’16, Arts Editor)