The Free Press continues the long-standing tradition of selecting the best boys hockey players from around the state. By talking with coaches and media colleagues we hope to compile a group that spotlights the very best the state has to offer on the ice.
As always, the job of trimming the list down to a first and second team, plus a cast of honorable mentions, is never easy. At the end of the day it remains a subjective process, but one we undertake with great pride and care. Without further ado, here is the 33rd Free Press’ Boys Hockey All-State Team.
More: This record-setter is the Free Press’ Miss Hockey for the 2023-24 season
More: 30 players named to the 23rd Annual Free Press All-State Girls Hockey Team
Congratulations to the 30 players listed below, headlined by South Burlington’s Lucas Van Mullen, who was named our Mr. Hockey on Thursday.
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THE FIRST TEAM
Nick Kelly, South Burlington High School
Senior, forward
• The player: A versatile, team-first captain, Kelly popped in 14 goals and handed out 21 assists for the Division I finalist Wolves, who made their first championship appearance in nine years. A four-year player at South Burlington, Kelly wraps his career with 80 points (43 goals, 37 assists) in 63 games played.
• Coach Sean Jones on Kelly: He’s a spark plug. He’s super-passionate about everything he does and he’s a leader by example. He gets after it and loves to compete. You mix in the skills that he has and it turns him into a special player.”
Brody Rassel, Colchester High School
Senior, forward
• The player: Returning to the BFP all-state first team for the second straight winter, Rassel was a catalyst and clutch goal-scorer who routinely double-shifted for a Lakers team that reached the Division II title game. Colchester coach Eric Ouellette estimated Rassel was well over 20 points on the season.
• Coach Eric Ouellette on Rassel: “A lot his goals were circle high and that’s where he excels the best. Any time we needed a big goal or play, he was there to provide it for us. He’s a smart player and a good skater with a good hockey IQ.”
Tyler Russo, Rice Memorial High School
Sophomore, forward
• The player: The center served a vital role playing in both zones for the Green Knights, who captured the program’s first D-I title in 29 years. Russo finished his sophomore campaign with a team-best 35 points (21 goals, 14 assists).
• Coach Justin Martin on Russo: “He was probably our top two-way forward. He could kill…
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