The spirit of Norwood pride filled the Elks Hall tonight as the town gathered to honor the Norwood High School hockey team—fresh off their hard‑fought Bay State League championship. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., players, coaches, families, and devoted fans came together for a celebratory banquet recognizing a season defined by grit, teamwork, and hometown support.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of championship jackets and framed team photographs to the Blue Blades, a tribute to the boys who battled through a tight league race and emerged as true champions. The crowd was treated to remarks from four giants of the sports world: • Bobby Cleary, Harvard standout and 1960 U.S. Olympic gold medalist • “Butch” Songin, Boston Patriots quarterback and Boston College hockey All‑American • John “Snooks” Kelly, legendary Boston College hockey coach • Milt Schmidt, Hall‑of‑Fame Boston Bruin and current Bruins coach
The banquet also included the announcement of next year’s team captain, who will follow outgoing captain Jack Bayer, a steady leader throughout the season.
A hearty chicken pie dinner by Connolly Caterers was served, and the event was organized by a dedicated committee led by Pret Neilsen, with Tom Clifford, Ernie Higgins, Helen Neilsen, Bob Ivatts, Gary Maus, and Frank Wall, who served as master of ceremonies.
The Blue Blades’ championship run was one for the ages. Under head coach Don Wheeler, assisted by Rev. Dan Young and Jimmy Gormley, Norwood posted a 9‑2‑1 regular‑season record and entered the playoffs in a three‑way tie with Walpole and Needham. In the postseason, the boys went undefeated—defeating Walpole, Needham, and Wellesley—to claim the league crown by two full games.
Several players earned league honors: • Richy Hebner (sophomore forward) – First‑Team All‑Star • Richy Lovell (senior defenseman) – First‑Team All‑Star • Paul Angelo (junior forward) – Second‑Team All‑Star • Tim Twomey (defenseman) – Second‑Team All‑Star
Tonight’s banquet was nearly a sellout, with only a handful of tickets available at the door. All players and coaches were seated at the head table—a fitting tribute to a team that brought pride, excitement, and championship glory to the town of Norwood.
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