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Thibodeau's four goals put Danvers in playoffs for 20th straight year

Danvers High hockey coach Kevin Brown has taught his team not to rest their laurels on the achievements of their forebearers.

Translation: just because the previous 19 Falcon editions had qualified for postseason play, this year's club had to make it on its own.

"We made it very clear to them that just because you put the jersey on doesn't automatically mean they give you a berth (in the tournament)," said Brown. "You can't just take things for granted and get too comfortable."

After a slow start to the season, the Falcons have kicked it into gear and earned that qualifying berth last night. Behind a career high four goals from junior center Troy Thibodeau, the Falcons crushed the Lynn Jets, 7-1, at Salem State.

Thibodeau, who leads Danvers (9-4-2) with 15 goals, scored twice while shorthanded, and had at least one goal in every period. Senior Jay Sabino added his ninth goal, senior captain Jake Korthas had a goal and two assists from his spot on defense, and sophomore right wing John McInnis added his first varsity goal in the victory. Captain Steve Kontos added four assists, giving him a team-leading 31 points.

"When Troy had the puck on his stick tonight, he buried those opportunities," said Brown, whose team has won three straight and 8 of its last 10 games. "He's playing with confidence and had some great line support, too."

Danvers has a huge contest with Peabody (12-4) Saturday night at Salem State (6 p.m.). The Falcons upset the host Tanners three weeks ago, 3-2.