Boys Hockey Seeks Repeat in Sunday's Title Game

The Wilmington boys hockey team is back on the biggest stage in Massachusetts high school hockey for a second straight year. And the Wildcats are ready for a repeat performance.

In a rematch of last year’s Division 2 state title game, Wilmington squares off against Franklin at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday on the ice of TD Garden in Boston. With a win, the Wildcats would seal a dominating postseason run with a second consecutive state championship.

“We knew coming into the season that we had a lot of skill, and our goal was to get back and win at The Garden,” said senior captain Cam Owens. “Last year we didn’t know what if we were going to be able to win it all, but we were hopeful. I won’t say that we knew we’d be back this year, but we had a better idea of what it took.” 

The Wildcats will face a motivated group of Franklin skaters. The Panthers have reached the state championship game the last two years, but fell in both attempts. Two years ago it was Tewksbury doing the honors in overtime, and last year it was Wilmington thanks to an Owens hat trick.

Junior forward Brendan McDonough, who fired home three goals in the North Division 2 final on Monday, said the Wildcats had high expectations entering the season with a strong group of veteran skaters back on the roster.

“We expected to make it. We knew going in that it was our goal to get to the finals and win. Nothing less would be acceptable,” said McDonough. “We’re all pretty calm, and none of us panic too much. We’re hoping to come out with a win, and do it for the fans.”

For complete coverage of Sunday’s game, be sure to follow along with Wilmington Patch’s live blog. We’ll also have photos and video reaction from TD Garden following the game.

Among the seniors on this year’s roster is Dylan DiNatale, whose offensive game has continued to evolve. He’s chipped in multiple goals during the team’s playoff run. DiNatale said he expects to see a large Wilmington fan base in Boston, just like the team had behind them last season.

“It’s good to see everyone come together as a community and cheer us on. It gets us going and is a huge factor,” said DiNatale. “Being a senior, our last time lacing it up with the boys is emotional. We’re trying to hold back our emotions, and get a win.”

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