By Declan Burt ’26
Brother Rice Hockey took on Providence Catholic on Saturday, Jan. 24, to celebrate the seniors on their Senior Night.
The Crusaders had a rough first period, letting up three goals. At the end of the first period, Brother Rice was down 3-0.
In the second period, the Crusaders came out strong with a 2-on-1 goal from Jack Gaskin assisted by James Esposito. Later in the second period, Jake Beck netted a backhand goal, making the score 3-2.
The Crusaders fought a hard third period, fighting for another goal to tie the game.
With 30 seconds left, James Esposito scored a rebound to bring the game into overtime.
This would be James Esposito’s 70th goal, beating Brother Rice’s all-time leading score record.
Captain James Esposito said, “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates… especially Jack Gaskin who’s been on my line for three years. We have grown a lot of chemistry together and it shows every game.”
Going into overtime, both teams were playing with high intensity.
Providence Catholic scored the game winning goal, bringing the final score 4-3.
This was a heartbreaking loss for Brother Rice, especially the seniors.
Assistant captain John Esposito said, “Its heartbreaking knowing this is potentially one of the last games I will play with my brother (James Esposito) … we grew up playing together and I wish I could do it all over again… I’m (going to) miss it.”
Brother Rice hockey’s regular season comes to an end, while state and playoffs are just right around the corner.
