LYNN — The St. Mary's girls hockey team was honored by City Council for winning the 2024 state championship, and the players' efforts on the ice were also recognized.
At-large Councilman Brian Field, the only City Council member present at St. Mary's, won the school's sixth Division 1 ice hockey state championship, led by seniors Casey Litwin, Regan Sullivan and Gianna Tringale. The event began by welcoming the female students and their coaches.
“And I think it's more of St. Mary's University women's hockey coach Frank Paliuca who is leading that cause and leading that responsibility,” Field said.
Mayor Jared Nicholson gave a speech congratulating the team on their victory, noting the hard work and drive it took to get to that point.
“I know that a state championship represents years of dedication to the sport,” Nicholson said. “From the early ice days…when many of you were learning to skate to today…you've put so much effort into this journey, and it's amazing to be able to celebrate it with you today. It's an honor.”
Nicholson highlighted the work the team has done on the ice and for the community, citing the example of a skate night with the Lynn Special Olympics team, which the council approved before the St. Mary's team.
“Hearing that the group we just recognized had the opportunity to skate with you and that you created that special moment is especially special to me and represents the power of the sport. I think so,” Nicholson said.
Pagliuca said a few words before calling out all the players' names.
“One of the important messages we want to send with our program is to give back to the community in any way we can…on and off the ice,” Paliuca said. “Being inclusive, being part of the fabric of the community…not just on the ice, but more importantly off the ice. That's the important message we send.”
Pagliuca also said the moment was made even more special because he was able to celebrate both the St. Mary's and Lynn Special Olympics teams at the meeting.
He also said the teams that won the state championship and Catholic Central League championship reflected the hard work and dedication of the players to each other and were representative of St. Mary's and the city community. stated in an email.
The players were presented with certificates by Councilman Field and Councilman Brian LaPierre. The people in the venue gave a big round of applause to thank the girls for their hard work.
“To me, tonight is a great example of what this city is all about,” Nicholson said. “And it shows what winning looks like, not just on the ice, but in life itself.”
