WALPOLE — When it comes to dinnertime conversation, or family gatherings, between the end of November and mid-March, Paula Verderber  knows there is one topic that dominates all others: Walpole High girls’ ice hockey.

The last six seasons, her 70-year-old husband, Ted , and son Joe , 42, have teamed up to coach the Rebels, transforming it from a start-up program and Bay State Conference newbie to perennial state tournament qualifier.