Thank You, Bob Anthony

Bob Anthony compiled an outstanding win-and-loss record in his 17 years as the head coach of the East Boston High School ice hockey team, building the Jets into one of top teams in Boston, year in and year out.

But what the parents of Eastie hockey players came to truly appreciate about Bob Anthony was the sense that their children were learning important lessons about life – sportsmanship, teamwork, and preparation  – and that they would carry on these values and principles in to college and adulthood.

Bob Anthony’s hockey program was an extension of the classroom and he and his staff gave it 100 percent at every practice and game, and their players responded with an all-out effort as a group.

Parents, players, and an entire community admired Coach Anthony and his wife, Jacalyn Anthony, and respected how supportive he was during Mrs. Anthony’s courageous battle against cancer. The annual Deep Freeze Hockey Tournament was a great tribute to his wife, and Coach Anthony’s players could see the love and devotion he had for this outstanding woman who was unquestionably the team’s No. 1 fan. His daughter, Carrie Anthony Brangiforte, her husband, East Boston High Principal Phil Brangiforte, and their children supported the tournament and understood what this great event came to symbolize.

Bob Anthony was a giant in the high school coaching profession, and we will miss his towering presence behind the bench. His players have benefited so much by his leadership and guidance in the EBHS hockey program.

Those players whom were coached by Bob Anthony will always have a special place in their hears for this gentleman, and it’s a certainty he feels the same way about the numerous student-athletes that he affected in such a positive way.

Finally, we hope the East Boston High School hockey program will consider establishing a permanent tribute in honor of Bob and Jacalyn Anthony at Porrazzo Rink as an expression of appreciation for all that they meant to the hockey program.

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