AUGUSTA — On April 4 the Maine Moose Full Season U16 team captured the USA Hockey U16 Tier II National Championship in Wayne, N.J. They were honored at the State House on April 29.

The team enjoyed an undefeated regular MEAHA league season, followed by an undefeated playoff to win the Maine State Championship. The team also played in the Eastern Junior Elite Prospects League and dominated their division, but opted out of the playoff round due to high school commitments.

The team was recently invited to the State House by Representative Peggy Rotundo(Lewiston), to be recognized for their accomplishment by the State House of Representatives during session. The recognition was co sponsored by Representatives Earle McCormick (Kennebec), Nathan Libby (Androscoggin) and Charlotte Warren (Hallowell).

Members of the team are Esa Maki, Matt Jolicoeur, Ryan Raby, Dustin Larochelle, Joe Bisson, Gavin Bates, Jayden Wilson, Joe Grant, Josh Malone, Tanner McClure, Cole Ouellete, Jeromey Rancourt, Nick Bisson, Marc Thibodeau, Cody Doyon, Ryan Kappellman, Cam Wilson, Sam Story and Tyler Halls.

The team was coached by Ben Gray and Jim Raby. Special thanks to Bill Desmarais for helping out at practices when available, and to Dr Rick Kappelmann.