The Methuen/Tewksbury girls ice hockey team achieved a remarkable feat by going unbeaten in league play for the second consecutive year, securing their title in the competitive MVC/DCL Large division. With a final regular season record of 16 wins, 0 losses, and 2 ties, the team demonstrated resilience and skill, culminating in a decisive 4-1 victory over Shrewsbury on March 15, 2024.
The excitement surrounding this achievement is palpable among the players and coaching staff. Interim head coach Ryan Sheehy expressed his amazement at the team’s performance, stating, “To be able to come out on top and not have a (league) loss in those two years is just incredible.” This achievement follows a challenging season filled with intense competition, with 14 one-goal games last year that tested the team’s mettle.
Defensive Dominance Underpins Success
Central to Methuen/Tewksbury’s success is their outstanding defensive play. The team leads the state with an impressive goals-against average of 0.44, having allowed only eight goals throughout the regular season. Lydia Barnes, the team’s senior goalie, has been a standout performer, boasting 11 shutouts and solidifying her status as one of the top goalkeepers in the state.
Star junior defender Lyla Chapman highlighted the team’s defensive mentality, stating, “We take so much pride in our defense and (in Barnes).” The defensive unit, which includes Chapman, eighth-grader Kenzie Dunnet, and freshmen Lauren Ryan and Maeve Burns, works diligently to stifle opposing offenses. Their ability to control the defensive zone and facilitate quick breakouts has proven crucial in maintaining their unbeaten record.
Sheehy noted, “It’s all effort. Both ends of the ice, all three zones, are all effort.” This relentless pursuit of excellence has enabled the Red Rangers to limit their opponents’ scoring opportunities, with only Waltham managing to score more than one goal against them this season.
A Tribute to a Legacy
The current season holds special significance for the Methuen/Tewksbury team as they dedicate their performances to former head coach Dave O’Hearn, who passed away during the offseason. O’Hearn, who battled cancer while coaching, instilled a strong work ethic and defensive focus in his players. Chapman emphasized the importance of honoring his legacy: “If I’m tired or something, I’m still going to try my hardest on the ice because (O’Hearn) would be down our necks, saying ‘bear down, keep it up.’”
The team’s commitment to O’Hearn’s teachings has fueled their drive to succeed. Barnes echoed this sentiment, sharing, “I come out every day, playing as hard as I can because I know if he were here, he’d be wanting us to do that.” This emotional connection not only motivates the players but also strengthens their bond as a team.
Alongside their defensive prowess, Methuen/Tewksbury has also shown offensive growth this season. Veteran players like Sammy Ryan, Ella Duffy, and Emily Barbosa have contributed significantly to the attack, ensuring that the team remains a well-rounded threat on the ice.
As they prepare for the upcoming state tournament, the Methuen/Tewksbury Red Rangers aim to reclaim the state title they last won in 2019. Sheehy remains optimistic about their prospects, stating, “Just being able to lock down the defensive zone, we squeak one goal in, we think we’re pretty good.”
With their strong leadership, unwavering determination, and a legacy to uphold, the Red Rangers are poised for a deep run in the playoffs, eager to add another championship to their storied history.
