The E9 Prep Showcase league concluded its season with an exciting championship weekend at the Haverhill Valley Forum in Haverhill, MA. Congratulations to the champions: the U18 and U15 teams from Boston Hockey Academy (BHA) and the U16 Lovell Academy!
The U18 final was a thrilling game that saw the 95 Giants take an early lead with a power play goal. Boston Hockey Academy quickly responded, equalizing shortly after. The Giants regained the advantage with another goal, ending the first half 2-1. They extended their lead to 3-1 with a second power-play goal. However, BHA rallied, scoring on their own power play and then finding the net with just 30 seconds left in regulation to push the game into overtime. In a tense overtime period, Caden Grestini scored the decisive goal, securing the championship for BHA.
In the U16 final, the #6 MA-ranked Lovell Academy Lions started strong, scoring within the first minute and adding another goal shortly after. The 95 Giants managed to cut the lead to 2-1, but Lovell Academy responded with two more goals in the first period, ending the game with a 5-2 victory. Colin Smith netted the game-winner, while Waylan Morgan put forth a commendable performance in goal for Lovell.
The U15 final featured the #8 MA ranked Valley Jr Warriors facing off against the #5 MA ranked Boston Hockey Academy. After a scoreless first half, BHA surged in the second, scoring on their first shot and adding two more goals before the Warriors could respond. BHA sealed the match with a 3-1 victory.
Following an exhilarating championship weekend, the E9 Prep programs are now setting their sights on the Massachusetts State Tournament this upcoming weekend. Teams will compete for a chance to secure a spot at USA hockey nationals.