By Grace Allen

King Philip–Walpole Youth Hockey recently partnered with Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School to create a custom training aid that will help young players sharpen their shooting skills.

Tri-County metal fabrication student Lucy Oleksy led the project, designing and building a durable steel frame that attaches to a hockey net to help players practice accurate shot placement without a goalie. Often called a “shooter tutor” or shooting board, the tool provides designated openings for players to target during drills.

Oleksy oversaw the fabrication process, with classmates assisting in cutting, sanding, and preparing the metal components. The project not only offered students valuable hands-on experience with a complex build but also saved the youth hockey program the cost of purchasing a commercial version.

“It was truly a win-win,” said Gary D’Entremont, president of King Philip–Walpole Youth Hockey. “The kids gained real-world learning, and our program received a high-quality training tool.”