By Liz Torres, Globe Correspondent

Unable to produce a winning record the past few years, the Medford boys’ hockey program has been looking a fresh start.

Out of five applicants, former Bruin Shawn Bates had a resume and local ties with the community that made him an easy choice as the new head coach.

“It’s nice to hire within the community," said athletic director Bob Maloney. "Shawn’s resume is impeccable, and we’re looking for a fresh start.”

Bates, a 1993 Medford graduate, was part of the first public school team to reach the championship round of the Super 8 tournament, and he is the program’s all-time leading scorer (103 goals, 139 assists).

Bates went on to play for Boston University, and his teams played in the Frozen Four each year, winning the national championship in 1995.

Bates, a center, was a fourth-round pick of the Bruins in 1993 and played four years in Boston beginning in 1997. After signing with the Islanders as a free agent in 2001, he spent five-plus seasons with them, finishing his NHL career with 72 goals and 126 assists.

“He’s played at every level of hockey and has had success," said Maloney. "When you play at BU and the NHL, you’ve reached your peak of your sport."

Regardless of where he has played, Bates never really left Medford. He is responsible for two $1,000 scholarships (hockey and basketball) for Medford High graduates, and he also donated a scoreboard for the high school's LoConte Rink.

“He’s never forgotten where he came from and we’re lucky to have him,” said Maloney.
“We’re looking to build the program and make it more respectable."

The Mustangs went 8-12 last year and 9-11 the year before.