Five questions with Methuen’s Cody Lambert
Hi Cody, how’s the season going so far? Are you surprised by the team’s strong 5-2-1 start?
I think this season is off to a pretty good start, and everyone looks fantastic. I am not surprised to see us off to such a strong start because I knew this team was capable of great things.
You are a captain. In what ways do you try to provide leadership?
I will never judge anyone for anything or for any mistakes they make, because they shouldn’t feel guilty about them. Mistakes are going to be what help us succeed, as that’s what we take in and learn from. I also try to stay positive for anyone who needs it.
You have played a big part in the team’s recent league titles. Why do you think the program has been so successful lately?
The effort and dedication are the keys to our league’s success. Everyone comes in day in and day out with everything they have, and that translates to our big moments. Our coaching and staff also plays a huge role in our confidence and all the choices they help us make.
You are instrumental in the team’s penalty killing this season. What do you think are the reasons you are successful when the team is a man down?
I just try to fill passing lanes, stay aggressive, and always face the puck. All our penalty killers are awesome!
You are following in the footsteps of your two older brothers, who also played hockey at Methuen High. Tell us what that has been like and any similarities/differences among the three of you.
My brothers are my best friends and the people I learn the most from, so having them play with me and show me what I can do better and what I do is right definitely helps me grow my game. Cole helps my insight for aspects like penalty kills and skating, and Adam helps my game for playmaking and decision-making with the puck.
Break Outs
Brodigan displaying strong leadership: Andover is off to a slow 1-5-1 start, and while scoring has been an issue, leadership has not. Head coach Kevin Drew said his four captains, including Marky Brodigan, have been terrific on and off the ice thus far.
“Marky is a dog. Kid works his butt off. He’s the first one over the boards for penalty kills. He’s a hard forechecker and has a sneaky shot that can pick corners. He can quietly control the room and is well respected,” said Drew.
Haley providing a big spark: Central Catholic junior forward Logan Haley scored the team’s game-winning goal in Saturday’s 4-3 overtime thrilling win over Shrewsbury. Prior to that win, the Raiders had been shut out in three straight games. Haley followed up with another goal in Tuesday’s win over Westford Academy.
“Logan is a strong two-way player who is difficult to knock off the puck. He is starting to be very comfortable with the puck on this stick. His strength, awareness, and use of ice have drastically improved this season, and he has become one of our biggest offensive threats,” said head coach DJ Conte.
Costa leads Division 3 in scoring: A year after finishing his sophomore season with 16 goals and 16 assists, Haverhill High junior Matt Costa is red-hot with 13 goals and seven assists through seven games. Last year, Haverhill finished 8-12 and missed the state tournament, and already this season, the team is 5-2-0.
Mangiameli steady at the blue line: North Andover High junior Matt Mangiameli continues to be a solid contributor as a defenseman.
“His defensive awareness and aggressive style of play have helped the team solidify the defensive zone and become a more effective team,” said head coach Ben Murphy. “He also has chipped in on the offensive end, scoring his first career goal – a game-winner in overtime — on New Year’s Eve against Masconomet.”
Redhawks sparked by two-way threat: Whittier Tech/Amesbury sophomore Colin Brown has been instrumental in the team’s 6-3 start. Currently, he has three goals and three assists.
“He is one of the most reliable all-around contributors on the roster, impacting the game at both ends of the ice,” said head coach Steve Costa. “While his offensive production continues to grow, it’s his commitment away from the puck that has made him especially valuable to his team. Colin shows strong instincts in the offensive zone, creating chances through smart positioning, crisp puck movement, and a willingness to drive play when opportunities arise.”
Burwell, Astros, flying high: Pinkerton Academy is off to a terrific 7-1 start, which includes winning the Heuchling & Swift Memorial Christmas Classic. Two-year captain Gavin Burwell has been a significant part of the success, chipping in with three goals and two assists.
“Gavin’s been a positive leader and teammate since his first day within our program,” said head coach Jon Chabot. “He’s excelled at being a role model for our underclassmen, both on and off the ice, as he’s been one of our three captains for two consecutive seasons now. We’re excited to see how much he continues to progress as our season continues onward.”
Freshman sensation: Salem High’s Hunter Thompson has taken a regular shift alternating between the first and second lines, and he’s made an immediate impact, scoring six goals and adding six assists in just seven games. In the team’s three Christmas Tournament games, he finished with three tallies and three helpers.
Getting defensive: Windham is off to a 3-1 start and continues to get improvement from its defensemen, including Cole Currier.
“He’s probably one of our brightest spots as a newcomer. He is full of energy and has an incredible passion for the game. He is extremely coachable and willing to do whatever it takes to help the team,” said head coach Shawn Quaglietta.