Something odd is happening within the Memorial ice hockey program. It can be seen on the ice, on the bench, even in the stands – smiles everywhere. Yes, the Crusaders are learning to enjoy themselves. The result is better play.

In fact, Memorial came back from a 3-0 first-period deficit against Nashua South on Saturday, Jan. 17, tied the contest in the second period and then won its first game going away, 6-3. “After the first period I was like, ‘What the heck,” said head coach Kyle McDonough. “But to score six unanswered (goals) was very exciting. Boy, we needed that win.”

Three days earlier, against Salem, Memorial fell into a similar 4-0 hole in the opening frame, then came back to scare the Blue Devils before falling, 4-3. For whatever reason, Memorial is a totally different team in the second and third periods. McDonough can’t explain it, other than to say the players are ceasing to try to be superstars and concentrating on basics.

“Right now, they feel like they’re on top of the world. But our goal isn’t to get one win,” he said. “Sure, you’ve got to start with one, and we’re definitely feeling good about ourselves, but it’s not like we’re the Bruins or the Detroit Red Wings out there. We’re not a skilled team, and they’re starting to realize that. The way we’re going to win is by doing all the little things. Hopefully, they remember how we got that first (win).”

The team is young. For many players, it’s their first experience with competitive hockey. Yet McDonough is excited because his veterans are stepping up and taking ownership of the team.

“For us, it goes in waves. This year, we don’t have the most talented group, but we have some leadership that can help the young guys, and I think that will translate well for the future, as new kids come in and carry on that character and attitude,” said the fifth-year coach. “I like the direction we’re headed in, especially because it’s my understanding we have a pretty talented group of seventh- and eighth-graders coming in.”

Senior center Matt Zimmerman, who scored one of the half dozen goals against South, and goalie Matt Flynn captain the current unit.

Junior Kevin Miner, who lit the lamp twice on South, and senior Zach Harisiades, who has tallies in the last two games, complete a potent first line. Junior Colby Masiaszek, in his first year, and sophomore John Garrity are contributing solid play on the blue line, though McDonough said there are few set positions on his team.

“Sometimes I throw forwards out there on defense, or vice versa,” he said. “We’re a hodgepodge. You never know what you’re going to see on a power play or in a penalty-killing scenario. My guys are all over the place.”

Sophomore Bryson Bilodeau and freshman Brady Bilodeau are in their first year with the program. McDonough said both are seeing plenty of ice time and should be a big part of the team’s success going forward.

While Flynn starts most games, it was junior Pat Dodd making 23 saves to help MHS garner its first victory.

Others contributing for the Crusaders this season include senior Andrew Gardner; juniors Mike Putney, Cody Kienia, Jon- Luc Gagnon, Adam Upham, Dan Smith, Brian Sullivan, Seth Stone, Bryan Villemure, Eric Burke, Kevin Kelly and Jared Pellerin; and sophomores Ryan Lopes, James Hickey and Tyler Fay.

“We’re finally playing some (strong) hockey, and they’re having fun,” said McDonough. “I truly believe if you’re having fun, good things will happen.”