Every hockey team has those players who go above and beyond what is expected.
They are the ones always early for practice and are always willing to help the team in any way, both on and off the ice.
The Trentonian likes to recognize those unsung players who might now always show up in the box score, but are invaluable to the team’s success.
Here are the 2025-26 season Unsung Players:
Luke Smith-Grassa (Hamilton Tri-op) – A skilled skater, Smith-Grassa has been all over the ice, except goal, and played exceptional everywhere. He has great game savvy and is always in the right place at the right time to make the right play for his team.
Graham Carter (Hopewell Valley/Montgomery) – A strong tough forward, Carter always brings a positive attitude to every practice and game. He plays hard and fast and gives everything he has. He’s a leader in every way.
Devin Espana (Hun) – This sophomore defenseman is the epitome of a team player, one who takes on more responsibility than often is needed. But, no amount of responsibility is too much for Espana. A leader who makes all those around him better.
Brendan McGrane (L/H/E) – The tri-op of Lawrence/Hightstown/Ewing is fortunate to have a goalie like McGrane as he battles through every game and at times has faced over 60 shots a game. Yet, he stays positive and focused on doing what is best for the team. His play has been an inspiration to teammates.
Colton Stecchini (Lawrenceville) – Stecchini is one of those players who just wants to work hard to improve every day. A very coachable player and one who is always willing to take feedback, he has been a great role model for the entire team.
Grant Barush (Notre Dame) – A four-year player for the Irish, Barush has displayed a great work ethic to improve each season. Headed to West Point next fall, he has displayed great skill and determination and he leads by example, on and off the ice.
Johnny Walker (Paul VI) – Just name the assignment and Walker is willing to take it on and do whatever it requires. Always positive on and off the ice, he has stayed upbeat despite missing a season with an injury.
Peter Pessutti (Princeton) – The Tigers goalie is probably best suited for some most improved recognition as he just continues to impress between the pipes. Many times it has been his play that was the difference for Princeton.
Marshall Matyszczek (Princeton Day) – Matyszczek has been the catalyst for so much of what the Panthers want to do on the ice. A two-way forward, he plays in every situation and has been invaluable to the team as it battles the tough Gordon Conference schedule.
Alex Margolin (Robbinsville/Allentown) — Margolin, a senior center, has displayed great qualities in skill, the ability to adapt and in his dependability. Playing on special teams as well as on the 2nd line, he is a player the coaches completely trust.
Koh Inoue (West Windsor-Plainsboro) – Inoue is a player who just goes out every practice and every game and does his job, and does it well. Mostly a forward, but at times his skill was needed on the defense and he stepped in admirably. A true team player who leads by example.
