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TR Hockey Moves Up in Rankings, Skates Past RBR

Nick Salzano view from above photo by Allison

Senior forward Nick Salzano had control of the ice, his stick, and the third period, scoring twice in the frame to put the game away. Photo by Allison Goodwin.

Jan. 9, 2025- Something special is brewing with Toms River Hockey.

The team, in its first year as a co-op among all three district high schools, recently won the Winding River Holiday Tournament. It entered yesterday's game against Red Bank Regional ranked 16th in NJ.com's Top 20. 

It exited yesterday's game with a 6-0 win and an 11-0 record.

Jake Letts TR Hockey photo by Allison

Everything's in focus right now for Jake Letts-- who assisted on a third-period Nick Salzano goal against Red Bank Regional-- and his Toms River Hockey teammates. Photo by Allison Goodwin.

Nick Salzano and Joseph Taliercio each scored twice, but it was an all-around and even effort, with nine players notching points and the team scoring two goals each period.

Goalie David Gawalis, the MVP of the holiday tourney, stopped all 18 shots he faced.

How far this special squad can move up the rankings remains to be seen, but players, coaches, and fans are certainly enjoying the ride.

Brady Verdon junior forward by Allison

Junior forward Brady Verdon, who assisted on the game's first goal, weighs his options looking down a line of defenders. 

Up next for Toms River Hockey is a date with Hillsborough, on the road, tomorrow night. Those Hillsborough Raiders have had their way with previous iterations of TR Hockey dating back to 2016, winning all four previous games by a combined score of 38-13.

Will this new era of Toms River Hockey bring new results? For now, the answer is on ice.