The Reale Deal

Whiz Kids: Kevin Reale, 12; Tim Reale, 15  

Whiz Kids’ Schools: Kevin is in seventh grade at ; Tim is a sophomore at .

Whiz Kids’ Accomplishments: Despite the extreme hockey schedules, these two brothers love the game and fit in baseball too.

Whiz Kids’ Key to Awesomeness: Speed, power, and teamwork. The three integral things a hockey player must possess.

When Tim and Kevin Reale are not watching professional hockey games on television, they are playing for youth teams.

Hockey fans run in the Reale family, so it was no surprise that the boys were introduced to skating at an early age. At one point, their father had a rink in their backyard.

“It’s exciting and keeps you on your toes,” said Tim of the game of hockey.

“I love the action,” said Kevin. “There is never a dull moment.”

Kevin plays his games through Northstar Youth Forum Ice Skating Facility in Westborough at the Peewee Major level, and he plays the position of center forward. Northstar is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the promotion of hockey and figure skating.

Tim also started at Northstar but now plays for the Algonquin High School JV hockey team on defense.

Although hockey is like any sport and requires practice, it’s the practice hours that are more challenging. Teams have limited ice time and often have to schedule their practices at odd hours at the rink. It is not uncommon to have two practices and two games per week.

Tim said that he has had to wake up at 4:30 a.m. to make a 5 a.m. practice before his school day even begins. An evening practice can end at 10 pm.

Players need to be dedicated to the sport as the season typically starts in September and continues through the spring, and tournaments can involve some travelling. Last year, Kevin’s hockey team won in Lake Placid, NY, the site of the 1980 Miracle on Ice.

In addition to the time commitment of the boys to the game, it is also a family commitment.

“Hockey is a major part of our lives,” said their mom, Jodi. “We spend so much time at the rink that that is where we socialize, make friends, and are a part of a tight knit hockey community. Non-hockey families don't understand the camaraderie shared between families at the rink. We see each other at our worst (6 a.m., no shower or coffee) and at our best (exciting wins).”

“While I don't appreciate the early mornings, the benefits definitely outweigh the negatives,” said Jodi. “It is just a part of them and I don't know what they would do without it. It has taught them to be independent, strong both physically and mentally, and has shown them how to be part of a team. 

Youth hockey teams have different rules than the National Hockey League, such as no fighting. Some of these rules are to address the increase of concussions in youth sports.

“It’s better for the health of the players,” Tim said.

There are injuries though. In fifth grade, Tim broke his leg when his leg was crushed in a fall. Kevin has experienced a jammed knee.

When Tim and Kevin don’t have skates on their feet, you will probably see them on the baseball field. Kevin plays for two different teams and Tim plays for the high school team.

Tim’s freshman baseball team at Algonquin beat St. Johns High School twice this past season. “It is always the most satisfying to beat St. John’s,” said Tim.

Playing video games and shooting baskets at Westborough Tennis and Swim Club also fills in any down time they may have.