Little Rhody on the Reds
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Since the inception of the Providence Reds in 1926 several Rhode Island bred hockey players have worked out with the club but few suited up for the team. However, in the 1943-44 season Little Rhody was represented for the first time. All-Stater Bill Thayer (Warwick) played the first seven games of the season before getting released. He would continue as a outstanding amateur and represent the 1949 United States National team. Former MSC All-stater Rollie Lemire of Sorel, Quebec was signed by the Reds but was sent to the New York Rovers (EAHL) for seasoning. He was called up in game 23 to face the Buffalo Bisons, who had none other than another former MSC all-stater from Quebec Fred Thurier in their line-up.
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Lemire would play 5 games for the Reds. Thurier would go on to have a very successful career in the AHL with stints in the NHL. Tony Prete was born in Providence, RI but moved to Sudbury, Ontario in his youth. He was signed for the last 2 games of the that season as well. Prete would go on to play/coach for several years both in North America and Europe. He also represented Italy at the 1939 World Championships in Switzerland.
