The majority of the Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Brooklyn consider Xavier H.S., Manhattan, a major sports rival. However, it turns out that many of Xavier’s student-athletes come straight from Brooklyn and Queens – which actually adds to the local sports rivalries.

A good example can be seen with the Knights’ varsity ice hockey team coached by Al Dimauro. The team often has players from St. Francis de Sales, Belle Harbor; St. Anselm, Bay Ridge; St. Columba, Marine Park; and St. Ephrem, Dyker Heights.

As a result, a major rivalry has developed with Xaverian H.S., Bay Ridge. Of course, the two teams have similar names, but the rivalry is more so based on the fact that many of the opposing players grew up playing hockey together. Once the puck is dropped, the ties of friendship fly out the window.

“There are a lot of kids that I know that go to both schools,” said Tyler D’Agostino, senior center and team captain from St. Ephrem’s parish. “It’s a chance to brag and a chance to one up your opponent.”