COURTESY PHOTO
The St. Mary’s boys hockey team shows off its championship rings.
By KATIE MORRISON
The season may be long over, but the St. Mary’s boys hockey team has still kept itself busy. That’s what happens when you’re a Division 1 state champion.
The Spartans visited the Massachusetts State House back in May as their Division 1 state championship win was recognized. Then, last Sunday, the team capped off their school year, and season, by receiving their championship rings.
The McMullens, parents of junior goalkeeper Kevin McMullen, hosted the team at their waterfront home in Gloucester. The setting was perfect, as the Spartans came together for a cookout on the water on a bright and sunny afternoon. But the best part of the day for Spartans coach Mark Lee was seeing his players get their hands on the rings.
“The joy on their faces, it’s awesome. There’s nothing fake about that,” Lee said. “It was great to see their reactions, and to receive something that really symbolized their accomplishments.”
“Although everything has been special, (the day) was the icing on the cake,” Lee added.
Of course, receiving a championship ring was pretty special for Lee himself, as well.
“It’s obviously something we’ve been striving for for more than 30 years,” Lee said. “There’s no feeling like it, and to have that recognition…it’s been a goal of mine, and I’m very proud of the kids.”
The rings were made by Jostens, the same company that produces championship rings for professional teams, and made the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl LI rings as well as the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2016 and Boston Bruins’ 2011 Stanley Cup rings.
“Obviously, (our) rings aren’t the same type, but they are really impressive, and well-deserved,” Lee said.
It was a great way to wrap up a championship season, and likely the last time the whole squad will be together, at least for now.
“It was a little sad at the end with some of the goodbyes, and kids going off to college,” Lee said. “So there were some mixed emotions.”
Lee assured there’d be occasions for the team to get together again, such as St. Mary’s alumni events and reunions in the future. When those events roll around, there’s no doubt each member of the team and staff can proudly display their new, and well-earned, hardware.