The East Northumberland Secondary School Blue Dragons varsity girls’ hockey team enjoyed a 2022 season to remember.
But it wasn’t just a roster full of skilled players that propelled the Blue Dragons of Brighton to an undefeated championship season. According to head coach Rebecca Turner, the overall skill of the squad was only a part of the equation that added up to a perfect campaign on the ice.
“We have a very fit group of athletes, dedicated and very experienced in the sport. I would say all of them play outside hockey in the community. They’re a great group of kids, nice and responsible,” said Turner who coached in her inaugural campaign with the varsity team that features girls from Grade 9 to 12.
Brighton Mayor Brian Ostrander paid a visit to the school on Wednesday morning, April 6th, to offer his congratulations to the team and staff for bringing a championship back to the municipality. The mayor also presented the players and coach Turner with a certificate of recognition to the team and posed for a team photo.
The Blue Dragons started off the abbreviated season because of COVID-19 restrictions by playing to a draw with a ‘notoriously strong’ St. Theresa’s team from Belleville in an exhibition tilt. The ENSS squad then proceeded to reel off six consecutive victories, culminating in a dominating 9-1 victory over Bayside Secondary School from Quinte West in the Bay of Quinte championship game. The title contest was played at the King Edward Park Arena in Brighton just prior to the March Break.
Turner also praised the work of her fellow coach Sheena Noce, who coaches girls’ hockey in the Centre Hastings area, who volunteered to come out and help guide the Blue Dragons varsity squad.
The Blue Dragons, noted Turner, are set up for success into the future. Next season, the 15-member team will lose only two players to graduation, meaning almost the entire team will be lacing up their skates with ENSS again next season.
Turner said she’s hopeful that next season will include a return to normalcy for the girls’ hockey program at the school.
“I’m hoping that next year looks more normal,” said Turner. “In a normal season there would be more teams and fewer interruptions.”
(Written by: Alan Rivett)
