By Tadgh Callaghan ‘25
Last Friday, Feb. 7, the Crusaders took on the Providence Catholic Celtics in a win-or-go-home game to advance in the Kennedy Cup. Even with starters Nathan Wilczak and Devin Stillo out for part of the series, the Crusaders battled every game.
The Crusaders came out strong, scoring two goals in the first period. The Celtics score right before the end of the second period to make the score 2-1 for the final period.
Senior Joe Moonan said, “I’m very proud of the way the boys battled. We really showed who we are.”
The Crazies showed up in full force. The glass was painted in a sea orange and maroon.
Senior Nolan Daley said, “I loved watching my boys go out there and give everything they had. They really had true grit.”
With five minutes left, the Crusaders still held onto their one goal lead. Providence was making a push to get an opportunity to score. The Crusaders’ defense held on and regained possession of the puck.
There was one minute left. The Crazies were losing their minds in anticipation. Every seat was empty, because every single person in the Arctic Ice Arena was on their feet.
Senior Nathan Wilczak said, “It felt really good to lead the boys to victory. The job is still not finished, and we have work to do.”
As the final seconds ticked down, the fans went crazy. People were jumping on top of the glass and the team celebrated with the student section. The Crusaders made the comeback and won the game 2-1. They advanced, and the best of the skating Crusaders is yet to come.
Photo Credit: Josh Torres
