As the final buzzer sounds on the 2025-2026 season, it also marks the end of an era for the Proctor Varsity Boys Hockey program. Head Coach Mike Walsh, the longest tenured coach in the Lakes Region League, steps away from the bench after 24 seasons, 324 career wins, a New England Championship, two Lakes Region Tournament titles, and nine NEPSAC playoff appearances. His final team will be the first to tell you that the record doesn't capture what defined this group and this season. Boys Varsity Hockey closed out the season on a roll, with back-to-back victories at home over Brewster Academy (4-2) and Vermont Academy (4-1), finishing in 5th place in the Lakes Region Tournament. Four seniors reflect on a year defined by community, resilience, and on what this year meant and what they'll carry with them.
What does it mean to be part of Coach Walsh's last team, and what about playing for him has stuck with you?
Brodie Farren '26: "Being part of Coach Walsh's last team means a lot to me. He's built a big foundation of Proctor hockey, and it's special to be part of his final season after everything he's given to the program. Walshie has many sayings he likes to bring up, but one thing that's really stuck with me and others is his quote, 'Death by a thousand cuts.' It's a reminder that success comes from doing the small things right every shift, always competing, and wearing teams down with effort. That mindset has shaped how I approach games and will stay with me well beyond hockey."
Axel Black '26: "He has had a large impact on my game. One of my favorite quotes of his is: 'Fair is where you go with your friends in the summertime.' This means not to expect what you might 'deserve' or think you have earned. What matters is how it goes when all is said and all is done, not what should be. This was a strong message when we were in a rut with overtime losses and close games after playing very well. This made me rethink my play and to continue to work hard."
Garrett Aceto '26: "While only being here for one year, Coach Walsh has given me more life lessons in one year than I've had any other year in my hockey career. The way he connects with his players is unmatched, and he will do anything in his power to allow you to become a better hockey player, but more importantly, a better person. Coach Walsh's character was shown in the lows and in the highs of this year. The way he handles himself and carries his day-to-day duties is something I am going to aspire to do in the future. Thanks Coach, and good luck."
This season has had its share of highs and lows. How has the team weathered those ups and downs, and what does it take to keep competing when the breaks aren't going your way?
Brodie '26: "This year hasn't always gone our way, but probably the biggest thing is that we all stay together as a team. Even after many tough losses, no one ever pointed fingers at each other, and we still all came to practice the next day to get better. We care about each other and care about doing things the right way, even if progress is slow."
Axel '26: "It was definitely a season filled with challenges. With that being said, it was also a season filled with fun stories and great memories. I think it speaks highly of the culture we built and the camaraderie we had as a group. This was one of my favorite teams to ever play on, and I am proud to be part of it. It took respect and dedication to one another to stay positive when the puck wasn't bouncing our way."
Garrett '26: "The team has weathered the ups and downs pretty well through the culture we have built together. A culture that prides itself on everybody being comfortable and respected, no matter the age, position, or skill level. When playing games where the breaks aren't going your way, simplifying your game and giving it your all is what matters the most. Attitude and effort are the only things you can control in life, so by being able to provide those two things at the best level you can, you give yourself the best chances at success."
What do you love most about being part of Proctor hockey?
Brodie '26: "What I love most about Proctor hockey is our brotherhood. Proctor hockey is a lot more than just wins and losses; it's about the relationships we have with each other and the pride we take in putting on that jersey every day. We push each other to be better not only on the ice, but as a person and in the classrooms."
Axel '26: "I love the team mentality of Proctor hockey. I felt like I was a part of something more valuable than my goals here at Proctor. Previously, it has been about my career and my goals. This year, it was about the team mentality and reaching goals as a team."
Tim Sullivan '26: "Being with my best friends every day, whether in the locker room, in the dorm, or on the bus to games."
Garrett '26: "My favorite thing about playing for Proctor is the group of guys. It's been a great ride with these guys, and I know I've only been here for one year, but it has been very fun. The culture that has been instilled here by Coach Walsh and previous teams was definitely built on this year and will hopefully be built on in the future."
What are your reflections at the close of the 2025-2026 season?
Axel '26: "I have so many feelings. I am obviously sad to leave the team and school, but will forever be grateful for the memories and opportunities."
Garrett '26: "The team was ready to go. It was kind of a difficult start, but ended up finishing in a great way. Student Leader Axel Black with a “hatty” and great goaltending by Brodie Farren helped us get the win at the Ted. As I reflect on the season, I think about the good times we had throughout the highs and lows. Although there were more losses on the record this year than wins, I still grew a lot personally and the team did too."
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