PMHS Varsity Ice Hockey Team Parade of Champions
Celebrates Division II NYS Championship
By Stephen E. Lipken
After a hard-fought 7-6 overtime victory over the Starpoint Spartans on March 13, 2022 at LeCom Harbor Center, Buffalo, the Pelham Memorial High School Pelicans Varsity Ice Hockey Team garnered the NYS Division II Championship.
“This is so incredibly exciting,” Pelham Union Free School District Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Champ exclaimed. “They represented our school beautifully. They fought a hard-won fight and never gave up.”
“I am incredibly proud of these young men, working together as a team,” PMHS Principal Mark Berkowitz added. “They had a phenomenal season, but the Championship did not come without perseverance, tenacity and total focus. It is a great pride and honor for them and a great pride and honor for the school community.”
A Parade of Champions victory celebration followed on March 26, 2022, beginning at Franklin Field, traveling down Wolfs Lane/Fifth Avenue, ending at the Veterans Park Gazebo.
Emergency Fire and Police vehicles joined the procession as well as pickup truck beds and convertibles carrying the team members, joined at the Gazebo by Pelham Manor Trustee Breda Bennett; NYS Senator Alessandra Biaggi; Pelham Manor Mayor Jennifer Monachino Lapey; Pelham Town Supervisor Daniel McLaughlin; Village of Pelham Mayor Chance Mullen and Assemblywoman Amy Paulin.
Master of Ceremonies Vincent Mazzaro noted that in his 38-year career, PMHS Varsity Ice Hockey Head Coach Ed Witz’s teams earned 2 State Titles; 8 Regional Titles; 12 Sectional Titles and 15 League Titles. Then Witz announced his retirement.
Speaking about his retirement, Witz noted, “I had an amazing run. I was very fortunate to be able to coach in such an amazing Town, School District and community. I am grateful for my relationship with the kids and families in the community, going out after the State Championship. You can’t do much better than that.
“I’m good with everything, just taking it easy now, continue to work at the Rink, leaving the program in good hands.” Witz mentioned that First Assistant Coach Michael Cambria is being considered for the job.