Wildcats Benefitting From 'Seventh Player'

Regardless of the arena they’ve skated in throughout the North Division 2 postseason, the Wilmington boys hockey team has had a home ice advantage.

Whether at Stoneham Arena, Chelmsford Forum or this Monday night at 6 p.m. inside Tsongas Arena, Wildcat fans have showed up in large numbers with plenty of vocal endurance, signs, and of course body paint.

“We’ve been talking about the keys to the game, and the seventh player so far has been the crowd. They’ve given us a huge lift,” said Wilmington head coach Steve Scanlon. “The kids hit the ice and the whole town is there. They really are doing a good job keeping us skating. The kids really love the support.”

So during Monday’s North Division 2 final against Winthrop, we want to reward the Wildcat faithful for their passion and support. 

We’ve got 10 Patch t-shirts to give away to the most spirited fans in attendance. Here’s how it’s going to work:

• Before the game, we'll have three shirts to give away to the fans sporting the most outrageous outfit that shows outstanding positive Wildcat support
• Be sure to follow Wilmington Patch on Twitter during the game because, in addition to live updates for those who can't be in attendance, we'll announce there how fans who are in the house can snag a free shirt
• Local Editor Matt Schooley will be on the lookout during the game for fans who best exemplify school spirit, and Wilmington pride. In between periods, he'll take a trip to the student section to hand out a few more shirts

So be creative, student section. In addition to t-shirts, we'll have some other Patch items as well for the most energetic fans. Just like the Wildcats will have to bring their 'A' game on the ice, you'll need to bring yours in the stands to will the team into the state championship game.

Wilmington sophomore goalie Drew Foley said that during increasingly physical and draining postseason games, it's critical to have his classmates in the stands rooting the team on.

"It’s very exciting and helps with the confidence," said Foley. "In the third period, everyone is tired. Then you start hearing the chants, hearing them yell your name, and you get an adrenaline rush. You know you’re going to finish the game and do your best to win for them."