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On the third day of the new year, Coach Gino Khachadourian’s Winchester High boys hockey team was back on the ice at Woburn’s O’Brien Arena to take on Middlesex League rival Arlington.
They ended up defeating the Spy Ponders, 2-1. It was the exact same score – only in reverse – from the last time they played, also in Woburn, against the non-league Xaverian Hawks two days before Christmas.
Caiden Brady scored the lone Winchester goal against the Hawks assisted by Max Vozzella and Axel Osborn. Goalie Graham Emerick did his part to keep the score close in this fast-paced game.
“It was a tough battle for us against a skilled opponent,” said Assistant Coach Derick DiVincenzo. “The game was played at a high tempo from start to finish, and we were able to turn in a solid effort throughout. We showed resilience and teamwork, while also competing hard. We stayed discipline to create our share of scoring chances, but just couldn’t put home the equalizer.”
Following the Xaverian game, the Red & Black went on hiatus for the holidays, but once the schedule resumed against aforementioned Arlington it was worth the wait.
Osborn notched Winchester’s first goal of the game, before Vozzella tacked on the game-winner. Jack Burkhart was credited with one assist. Emerick once again stood tall in net, this time to preserve a one-goal victory.
“This was a big-league win over a strong, structured team,” said DiVincenzo. “The game was intense from start to finish. We played solid defense, and got timely scoring, which was the difference in this game. Everyone bought in, and battled for each other, before closing it out when it mattered most. We were able to kill off numerous penalties, which really provided us with momentum throughout the game.”
The Winchester boys now know that they can win close contests.
“This tells us that our defensive structure is (just fine) as we are doing a great job in keeping skilled teams off the scoreboard,” said DiVincenzo. “But we still need to continue to find more ways to capitalize on offensive chances, which will help relieve pressure on our defense and goaltending.”
But by the same token, DiVincenzo is thrilled by the fast start.
“I’m proud of the way our team has started the season, winning the first four out of five games. We have battled through some adversity and have overcome deficits, which shows that we have a resilient group. We know we have a long road ahead, but it’s important that we are prepared for every game, regardless of the opponent, because we play in one of the best leagues in the state, so we know we are going to get everyone's best effort.”
With all of that said, they are passing the test to date.
From the stands, their fans among the student body have had plenty to cheer about, but, according to recent Facebook posts, some had to be reeled-in for their behavior. A truce was reached to allow them to continue to attend games, as long as they are with adult supervision. But as far as the coaches and players are concerned, their focus remains on the ice.
“Our priority as a coaching staff is to keep the team focused on what we can control, and that’s preparation, effort and performance on the ice,” said DiVincenzo. “Our role is to support our players, maintain a positive environment and ensure our attention stays on coaching the game the right way.”
The Red & Black were back in Woburn on Jan. 7 to face the Tanners, who then proceeded to defeat them in another close game by a familiar score, 2-1.
That’s only the team’s second loss this year, but they hope to get back on the winning track on Saturday night, Jan. 10 against non-league host Hingham at Hingham’s Pilgrim Skating Arena, starting at 6 p.m.
Joe McConnell is a longtime, award-winning sports editor for numerous North Shore publications. He began covering Winchester sports for the News in November 2024.
