Currently, Malden High School does not offer an ice hockey program of its own. Fortunately, MHS hockey players are still able to sharpen their skills because MHS partnered up with Revere High School to let students from MHS students play hockey. MHS has had a history of teaming up with other high schools to allow its students to play hockey. Previously, MHS had played with Pope John XXIII High School to create a combined and co-ed hockey team. Back then, MHS was able to play in the North Massachusetts Catholic Conference with substantial success. Now, with Revere, MHS plays in the Northeastern Conference.
On the team, there are seven MHS students, including junior James Pandolfo, a three-year high school hockey veteran, having previously played for Malden Catholic before transferring to MHS for his sophomore year. Among the sophomores of MHS, Paul Gennetti, Michael Giordano, and Michael Goroshko make up those who play for the Revere Patriots. Freshmen include Marc Giordano and Zachary Rufo. While the group of MHS students is small, Pandolfo expressed that he “[wants] to improve [their game] and hopefully clinch a berth in the state tournament.”
Leading the co-op team is head coach Joe Ciccarello. Under his guidance, the Revere Patriots have done well so far, as they are currently standing at a record of 5-4-2. The Patriots play their home matches in Revere’s very own Cronin Skating Rink. So far, the team has had four home games, and seven away games. Each game was hard fought as every player gave their all until the clock hit 0, never letting up. Up until now, the team has faced Lynn twice, and Gloucester, The Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational High School, Bourne, Swampscott, East Boston, Saugus, and Salem once each. The team has also played in the East Boston Cancer tournament.
The co-op team is still relatively new, as Pandolfo expressed that when they “[came] into the season, the coach put on a lot of pressure on [returning members] to really step up and get to the next level.” Pandolfo loves the sport because it is a “brotherhood, and a true team sport, [because] in order to succeed [one needs] to be on the same page as the team.”
These seven MHS students have proven their dedication and passion for hockey. MHS wishes its hockey players all the best for the remainder of their season.
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