This week's local sports scene saw some exciting tournament action and a satisfying dose of revenge on the ice. From the hardwood to the rink, local athletes delivered memorable performances.
Girls Basketball Tournament Heats Up
The girls basketball tournament is in full swing, with teams battling for a chance at the championship. No. 8 Central Catholic secured a decisive 65-55 victory over ninth-seeded Franklin in a Div. 1 second-round contest. Lily Phillips led the charge for Central Catholic, pouring in an impressive 19 points. Aniela Kwo contributed a solid 17 points, while Kerri Finneran added 12 for the Raiders. 
On the other side of the bracket, Reese Matela and Charleigh Greene each scored 15 points for top-seeded St. Mary’s (Lynn), showcasing their team's strength and determination.
"The intensity of the tournament is palpable. Every game is a battle, and these young athletes are giving it their all," commented a local sports analyst.
Dedham Hockey Avenges Last Year's Loss
In boys hockey action, Dedham delivered a sweet dose of payback against Tri-Valley League rival Dover-Sherborn/Weston. Last year, Dedham had beaten Dover-Sherborn/Weston twice in the regular season, only to fall to them in the Div. 4 second round, a loss that paved the way for Dover-Sherborn/Weston's first state title. 
This time, however, the script was flipped.
Senior forward Ryan Laughter made his presence known, creating havoc in front of the net. Senior captain Nick also played a crucial role in securing the victory for Dedham. This win marks a significant moment for Dedham, demonstrating their resilience and determination to compete at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
As the basketball tournament progresses and the hockey season continues, local sports fans have much to look forward to. The dedication and skill displayed by these athletes are a testament to the strength of our local sports programs. We'll continue to bring you updates on all the action as it unfolds. 
Stay tuned for more local sports coverage!