Published November 29, 2019
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—Melrose native and MHS alum George Brickley was recently inducted into Trinity College’s first ever Hall of Fame class in an event that took place on October 25, 2019 at Trinity College during homecoming weekend.
It was quite an honor for Brickley, who was one of 11 ever nominated, making him one of the most decorated Bantams in Trinity history. The Hall of Fame honors the men and women who, through athletics participation, coaching or service, have distinguished themselves in the field of intercollegiate athletics, brought honor and acclaim to Trinity, and contributed to the success and advancement of intercollegiate athletics at the college.
MHS ALUM George Brickley was inducted into Trinity College’s first ever Hall of Fame class. (courtesy photo)
Trinity College athletics span more than 160 years but it wasn’t until now that the Athletic Hall of Fame inducted its inaugural class. The school sponsors 30 sports — 15 men’s and 15 women’s competing in the New England Small College Athletic Conference, arguably the toughest NCAA Division III conference in the nation. Bantam teams have captured 26 national titles in eight different sports, including 24 titles in the last 20 years.
Brickley was a 1979 Trinity graduate who played hockey for the Bantams. The center was the 1978 ECAC Men’s Hockey Player of the Year and remains the most prolific goal scorer in Trinity hockey history with 113 goals and 82 assists for 195 points.
For Brickley, he finds that his collegiate success has its roots in Melrose. “I feel very fortunate to have grown up in Melrose,” he said. “It’s a city that values the lifelong benefits of strong athletic programs. My parents gave me every opportunity to succeed; they put me in a position where I could not fail; they are the true Hall of Famers.”
Brickley came from great hockey pedigree (his brother is former Bruin Andy Brickley) and grew up in the heyday of Melrose hockey. “Back then, you could take 5 guys off of Ell Pond and they could beat any high school player in the country.”
Husband to Cindy and father of Sarah, George, Hannah and Charlie, Brickley credits his hometown for the guidance and support he earned over the years. “The love and support of the entire Melrose community contributed mightily to my induction into the Trinity College Athletic Hall of Fame. Melrose has always been a great ‘hockey town’. I simply had the good fortune of growing up here. This Hall-of-Fame honor is really a shared award, a tribute to my family, friends and the entire city of Melrose. I am honored and blessed to call Melrose my home. I thank you all.”
