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The Winchester High School Red & Black boys hockey team finished the regular season last year with a 13-9-1 record.
They were the 11th seed in the Division 1 power rankings, and went on to win four more games in the postseason to earn a spot in the state championship finale, where they lost to St. John’s Prep (22-3, top seed) at the TD Garden, 3-2 on St. Patrick’s Day.
The team started that memorable postseason run with a 3-2 overtime win over Waltham (11-9-1, 22nd seed) in the Round of 32. They defeated Arlington (17-4-3, sixth seed) by the same score in the Round of 16, followed by a 4-1 triumph over Catholic Memorial (15-5-3, third seed) in an Elite 8 game.
Arlington Catholic (12-12-1, 18th seed) fell to its Winchester neighbors in a state semifinal game in overtime, 3-2, which sent coach Gino Khachadourian’s team to the Garden to face the aforementioned Eagles from Danvers.
“We had an up and down start to the season, but still finished strong, which helped us carry that momentum into the postseason,” said Khachadourian. “We then went on an incredible run that ultimately led us to the TD Garden for a chance to play for the Division 1 state title. The game didn’t end up going in our favor, but there was still so much to be proud of. (The long run) created a once in a lifetime experience that brought so much joy and camaraderie not only within our team, but within the community, as well.”
But now, it’s a brand-new year, and so far, the Red & Black have played just one game, shutting out Wilmington, 5-0 on Dec. 14.
“We had another tremendous showing at tryouts, and we appreciated everyone’s hard work and dedication. The practices were upbeat, and filled with excitement as we got closer to the start of the regular season,” said Khachadourian.
The Red & Black scrimmaged Medford, St. John’s Prep and Andover, before the opener against the Wildcats.
“We like to establish routines and rituals on and off the ice (before the season) to help build team chemistry,” said the veteran coach. “The season starts so quickly that we are continuously throwing new information at our players, especially the first-year guys.”
Jonny Garmey, Chris McCarthy, Thomas Casey and Griffin Lynch are this year’s captains.
“Each one of these captains bring a dedicated effort and willingness to do anything for the team. They are incredibly impactful on the younger players, helping them understand the systems, while also getting them accustomed to the varsity level.
They also lead the other veterans in order to develop an environment that promotes encouragement and trust between one another,” said Khachadourian.
But the coach then added: “There are a lot of veteran leaders on our team that can carry us a long way this season. As they gain another year of experience, we are going to lean on them even more, especially in crucial parts of a game.”
The team’s ability to remain positive and encourage one another in practices, games and off ice activities will be important elements to garner even more success this year, according to Khachadourian.
Winchester’s goal for the season remains the same as always, and that’s to win the Division 1 state title. They came ever so close last year.
“There is still a lot of hockey to be played from now until the end of March, so it is important that we remain in the moment and continue to get better every day,” said the coach. “We want our players not only to be successful in hockey, but also become successful young men. High school sports can provide memorable moments for players, and that’s what we are aiming to do.
“The players know we have unfinished business, and as a result are eager to get back to the TD Garden,” added Khachadourian. “The energy and tempo in practice has been excellent. This definitely sets a tone for the new players as it defines expectations day in and day out.”
Derick DiVincenzo and Chris Usseglio are Khachadourian’s assistant coaches.
“All three of us work together to make team-based decisions that are crucial to our success,” said Khachadourian.
Of course, Winchester plays in the Middlesex League, one of the top conferences in the state.
“Every team we face this season is going to give us their best game. We can’t afford to take a night off in this league, because everyone is competitive. All the teams are skilled and well-coached, which is why it’s important for us to be prepared and have a complete effort night in and night out,” said Khachadourian.
