
Algonquin players celebrate a goal in their special camouflage jerseys, honoring fallen soldier and former player Brian Arsenault. Their effort led to a 3-1 victory over Hopedale. (Photo/Owen Jones/Jones Photo)
WESTBOROUGH — Algonquin’s game on Feb. 1 was about more than just winning.
In their game against Hopedale at NorthStar Ice Sports, the Titans honored Spc. Brian Arsenault, who played hockey for Algonquin from 2000 to 2004 and was tragically killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan on Sep. 4, 2014. The 28-year-old Northborough resident was serving in the 82nd Airborne Division.
The game has been played every year since 2015, and Algonquin suits up in special camouflage uniforms for the occasion. This was the 10th annual game honoring Arsenault, and his No. 3 jersey was hanging above the bench during the contest.
Hundreds of community members attended.
“It’s heartwarming. Brian would’ve loved it,” said Brian’s mother, Leslie.
Algonquin took down Hopedale 3-1.
“It’s not even so much the winning — it’s about representing the program, the family, and playing our best. We needed to play with a lot of heart and grit, doing those things that Brian represented. I thought we did that well tonight,” said Algonquin Head Coach Greg Cappello.

Two players race for the puck along the boards as the Algonquin-Hopedale rivalry heated up during the annual Brian Arsenault Memorial Game. Algonquin claimed a 3-1 victory. (Photo/Owen Jones/Jones Photo)

Algonquin pays tribute to Brian Arsenault, with his jersey hanging above the bench during the 10th annual memorial game at NorthStar Ice Sports. The team honored his legacy with a 3-1 win over Hopedale. (Photo/Owen Jones/Jones Photo)

An Algonquin defenseman winds up for a shot in front of a packed crowd at the Brian Arsenault Memorial Game. Algonquin defeated Hopedale 3-1. (Photo/Owen Jones/Jones Photo)