RI Hockey Player Scores Goal, Honors Family Lost to Tragedy, Reaches Title Game

In a remarkable display of resilience, Colin Dorgan of Blackstone Valley Schools scored a game-winning goal in double overtime. This crucial goal propelled his team into the Division II championship game. The match took place on March 11, 2026, where Blackstone Valley triumphed over Portsmouth with a score of 3-2.
Colin Dorgan’s Journey
Dorgan described the victory as the greatest moment of his life. Throughout the playoffs, he has been a pivotal player for his team, contributing significantly to their success. Earlier in the tournament, he scored two goals during the decisive final game of a best-of-three quarterfinal series.
Coach’s Support
Blackstone Valley’s head coach, Chris Librizzi, emphasized the importance of team unity following a tragic event. He stated, “The biggest thing for us after the tragedy took place was to keep them together as a family.” Librizzi spent 14 consecutive days with Colin and other players, fostering strong bonds that he believed positively impacted their performance on the ice.
Tragic Background
Colin’s recent success is bittersweet, as it comes in the wake of a heartbreaking tragedy. On February 11, 2026, his father, Robert Dorgan, killed his mother, Rhonda Dorgan, as well as Colin’s brother, Aidan Dorgan, and grandfather, Gerald Dorgan, in a shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket. Robert Dorgan later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The shooter also identified as transgender, going by names such as Roberta Esposito.
Looking Ahead
The Blackstone Valley boys hockey team is set to compete in the championship game on March 18, 2026, in Providence.
Key Facts
- Player: Colin Dorgan
- Team: Blackstone Valley Schools
- Opponent: Portsmouth
- Game Date: March 11, 2026
- Score: 3-2 (Double overtime)
- Championship Game Date: March 18, 2026
- Location: Providence
Colin’s journey through grief and achievement highlights the strength of community and family in overcoming adversity.




