Honoring a Resilient Team
The National Hockey League paid tribute to the senior class of the Blackstone Valley Schools Hockey co‑op during the 2026 Entry Draft, presenting each first‑round pick with a personalized jersey on stage at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, on June 26.
Eight members of the championship squad stood alongside the draftees, sharing the spotlight as ESPN cameras captured the moment that followed the team’s dramatic four‑overtime victory over Lincoln for the Rhode Island Division II title.
The ceremony came just months after a tragic shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in February, an event that tested the resilience of the players, coaches and the broader community.
Colin Dorgan, captain of the Blackstone Valley side, thanked the NHL for the opportunity, saying the gesture honored both the draft prospects and the memory of those affected by the earlier tragedy.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised the team’s perseverance, highlighting how their courage resonated far beyond the rink and inspired fans across the sport.
Coach Chris Librizzi, who was named Coach of the Year, expressed gratitude to the league and hockey enthusiasts, noting that the recognition underscored the collective effort that defined the season.
In addition to the Courage Award, the Providence Journal honored the co‑op as Team of the Year, cementing a season that blended athletic achievement with a powerful message of unity and recovery.