Members of the Rye High School varsity hockey team were honored by the board of education and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tricia Murray at the April 14 board of education meeting, recognizing a season defined by teamwork and historic achievement.
The students received a Rye Recognition of Excellence Award – an honor that celebrates outstanding student accomplishments in academics, the arts and athletics. They also received certificates from Rye Deputy Mayor James Ward, New York State Assemblyman Steve Otis and New York State Senator Shelley Mayer. The recognitions followed the team’s historic victory when the Garnets defeated Byram Hills to capture the program’s first New York State championship.
“What makes this accomplishment especially meaningful is the team’s journey,” Dr. Murray said. “After falling behind early in the title game, the Garnets responded with composure and determination, scoring five unanswered goals to secure the win. Throughout the postseason, they rose to every challenge, defeating Aquinas and Clarence before earning a measure of redemption against Byram Hills on the biggest stage.”
The championship effort was fueled by goals from Finn Draddy, Jamie Morris, Max Niejadlik, Colin Nigro and Will Weinman, along with a strong performance in net from Fernando Mosquera. Senior defenseman Will Weinman was named tournament MVP, a reflection of his leadership and impact in key moments. The team is led by head coach Pete Thomas, now in his 12th season, who has brought leadership, vision and unwavering belief in his team. The Garnets concluded the season with a record of 19 wins, three ties and three losses, sweeping the Division I champion to win their league and capturing two midseason tournaments along the way.
Congratulations to Kai Brittain, Grayce Coyne, Conor Crotty, Luke Davies, Connor Dehmer, Trevor Dolan, Finn Draddy, Ryan Draddy, Davis Goodman, Cody Greenhaw, Mac Kelly, Julian Levenson, Aidan Lynch, Jack McGill, Will Molin, Jamie Morris, Fernando
Mosquera, Max Niejadlik, Will Niejadlik, Colin Nigro, Elle Ridley, Matt Rovenger, Jake Souza, Will Weinman and Baker Wells, as well as head coach Pete Thomas and assistant coaches Thomas Bailey and Mark Kronenberger.