After press time updates:
Melrose defeats Shawsheen Tech 3-1 in Div. 3 Sweet 16 Round matchup (Feb. 28)
Melrose defeats Holliston 3-2 in round 1 (Feb. 26)
Follow the latest MIAA state tournament updates here.
Published February 28, 2025
Melrose boys’ hockey ready for Round 1 of playoffs
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—It’s that time of year again for the Melrose boy’s hockey team, who is no stranger to playoff runs. Last year, Melrose had a strong one, nearly knocking off #1 seed Scituate in overtime, and this time they are ready to go further.
Melrose drew the #7 seed in the Div. 3 playoff bracket and at press time was poised to host #23 seed Holliston (7-11-2) on Wednesday, Feb. 26 at Kasabuski Arena in Saugus.
Melrose is enjoying their best record since 2020 as they enter playoffs. Should they prevail, they will host the winner of Shawsheen and East Longmeadow at a time TBD.
“We are feeling good about ourselves but know if we let up for a shift it could be the end of the season now,” says Melrose head coach Joe Ciccarello. “We have been playing tight games all year so we know how to play in tough games. This team really enjoys each other and I know they don’t want the season to end.”
Holliston recently merged with Ashland which improved its 1-18-1 season from 2023-24. They are led in scoring by Oliver Lareau who has 20 goals and their goalie is Shane Moriarty.
“They are a good team and have a prolific scorer. We can’t take them lightly because of their seeding. Focus on what we do, period,” says Ciccarello.
Melrose, having played in one of toughest leagues in Massachusetts, was rewarded with a No. 7 seed, which earns them two home games, a real treat for fans and players.
“Playing in one of the best leagues in state has definitely prepared us,” says the coach. “All our games except for a few have been close games. We love playing at Kasabuski. I’m sure the city will come out and support and that could help us.”
Fans are encouraged to visit our social media pages or the MIAA website at www.miaa.net for up to date tournament information.