Though Wedge had a rocky start to his season, getting sent down to the B team early on, he completely turned around his game and his level of dedication and was soon called back up to the A team where he excelled. “Matt was a pleasure to coach,” said Coach Chris Cerrella. “When he first came to us we didn’t know what to expect. But he worked hard and did everything he was asked. He deserves to play college hockey more than anyone because he was one of the hardest working players we had this season.” Wedge finished the season with seven points but it was his defensive abilities that got him noticed. “He was a big reason why the Express finished second in the AJHL in goals against,” Cerrella said.

Morgillo came to the Express via trade from the Hartford Wolfpack in late January to provide skilled offense down the stretch and help the team in the playoffs. He finished the season with an impressive 21 goals and 20 assists in 44 games. “Mike is a very talented hockey player and I think U-Mass Boston is a great fit,” Cerrella said. The U-Mass Boston Beacons were ranked as high as 19th in the nation this past season thanks in part to coach and former Express Junior B coach Jeff Pellegrini, who is rebuilding the U-Mass Boston program. “Jeff did a great job recruiting for the Express so I knew he’d be a fantastic college scout and coach,” said Express General Manager Rob Barletta. “Jeff and his coaching staff have really changed the philosophy of the team and are turning the Beacons into winners.” Barletta added, “The Beacons are getting a great player from us in Morgillo as we strengthen our relationship with a collegiate program on the rise.”

“Wedge and Morgillo were fantastic players for us and I am glad they will have the opportunity to attend college while furthering their hockey careers,” Barletta said. “Matt has played for me for the past 10 years, starting in my NEH youth program and then skating with me in my hockey school. His hard work on and off the ice put him in a position to play college hockey next season. I am so happy for Matt and his family.”

“Mike came to us late in the season and stepped right up,” Barletta continued. “He provided a jolt of energy for the team and I am sad to see him go, but of course proud that his accomplishments will allow him to take his hockey to the next level. With Matt and Mike’s success, we have added to our growing list of college commitments. I am proud of our players and especially proud of our staff, which has worked diligently to ensure our players get the opportunities they deserve.”