With extreme determination and grit, the 06 Greater Boston Vipers put together an incredibly strong November, going 6-1-0 in their division, 6-1-1 overall. Building on their solid foundation of fast skating, battling hard for the puck and playing a team game, they've become a formidable opponent in the EMHL.

No team goes far without a strong goalie between the pipes and Mike Murphy more than fits the bill. As one of the most athletic players on the team, “Murf” makes some acrobatic saves look easy. The team will need his focus and skill to be at a high level as they head into the meat of their schedule.

Standing in front of Murf are some of the steadiest defensemen in the league. With a long reach, Jimmy Driscoll provides a steady force on the blue line at right D, never giving up on a play, always sending the puck away from harm. Playing left D, Cam Sullivan tracks down the opponent's speedy forwards, makes the transition game happen and adds explosive offense when the opportunity presents itself. The Norton brothers have split time on both D and forward. Will Norton shows off his strong skating and deft hands while playing both positions. Always in the mix, making plays and setting the tone, he is an integral part of every shift. When the team needs grit and and a physical boost, Aidan Norton is there to provide one. Never afraid to go into the corners and do the dirty work, Aidan has done a stellar job, whether on the point or digging for a tough goal in front of the other teams' net. The other two players who have taken a regular shift on D are Ryan MacEachern and Nick Brandano. Ryan joined the team at the end of the summer and what an addition he has become. When the term “utility player” is used, Ryan's name comes to mind. Whether asked to play D, wing or center, MacEachern does the job with a “yes coach”, “I'll take care of it” attitude. The coaching staff can't ask for more than that! Nick's game begins with a strong blue line presence. Holding the opposing team deep in their zone is the key to success. Pinching in, holding the boards, forceful dump ins, are all part of Brandano's game. He contributes the same effort on forward too!

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While a good goaltender and strong defense certainly are the back bone of a team, wins don't happen without scoring goals. The offense on this Vipers team can only be described as dangerous. Using a strong forecheck, they attack with a purpose and constant pressure. The forwards group has been on fire lately and it all starts with aggressive play deep in the offensive zone. Two players on this Vipers team are perfect examples of aggressive, tough on the puck wingers, Steve Migliero and Zac Benedetto. Benedetto takes after his policeman dad and lays down the law in the corners, using his strong body to out-muscle and extract the puck from anyone in his way. Migliero, one of the biggest and most physical players on the team, plays a similar game. Digging and doing the dirty work along the boards is not always fun but Steve seems to enjoy the battles with a smile. Dillon Reilly, a skilled winger and center, uses his speed and puck carrying ability wisely. Reilly will drive into the offensive zone with a goal in mind and either pop one in or crash the net for loose pucks. Another speedy wing, Braedon Flanagan has been steadily increasing his point total. With a high tempo motor, Flanagan is relied upon to carry the puck through the neutral zone and does a superb job of it, firing the puck on net for goals or generating rebounds. When talking about rebound goals, Brendan Heffron's name comes to mind. Playing wing, he seems to have a knack for being in the right spot at the right time. Hockey sense is a big part of his game and it guides him into the perfect position for one timer goals on a consistent basis. Heffron also plays a feisty game along the boards and in the corners.

Coming into this season, no one knew what to expect from this team. Now that they are deep into it, an identity is forming, one of hard work and and a never give up attitude. The team is becoming one, pulling for each other, sticking up for each other, eating together, practicing hard together, winning and losing games together. No player on this team can do it alone and they have come to realize this. Heading into December after an incredible November, they'll need to continue this all for one mentality to carry them through the upcoming grind. Keep an eye on this 06 Vipers team. They will be fun to watch!