Pickens and Doherty Take Ice in Boston Hockey Showcase

Two hockey stars from Wakefield who both helped lead their teams to the Division 1 state tournament took to the ice once again at the Hockey Night in Boston Major Showcase at the Haverhill Valley Forum in Haverhill on July 28.

The tournament, which draws the top high school hockey talent from the eastern and Midwestern United States as well as Canada, has been a fertile ground in producing NHL stars over its 39-year history. Players such as Jeremy Roenick, Jon Quick, and Brian Leetch all played in the Major Showcase before moving on to the bright lights of the pros.

Sean Pickens, a rising junior at Austin Prep, played the Suburban squad, where he racked up 12 points during his sophomore season. He said he feels that playing against some of the best competition in the country can only help him.

“It’s good to get the exposure,” Pickens said. “You’re playing with the best kids, and it’s good to have people see you.”

The “people” Pickens referred to are the dozens of prep school, college, and juniors scouts that mine the tournament for talent.

“I’m definitely looking to do something in the future,” Pickens said. “I’m probably going to go to prep school for a year after high school.”

Pickens and his Suburban squad were eliminated in the first round of playoffs.

Also representing Wakefield, and Wakefield High School, is senior Kevin Doherty. Doherty, who scored 19 goals and played a key role in the Warriors’ run to the division1 state final, played for Middlesex/Merrimack.

“It’s great competition,” Doherty said. “The whole experience has made me a better player. I’m learning. Most of these kids are going to college, and I hope I can follow in their footsteps.”

Doherty said that he’s been trying his hardest under the watchful eye of the scouts and he’s excited for his senior year at WHS.

“We went to the Garden this year, and I’m captain next year,” Doherty said. “I’m looking to do the same next year and win it all.”