By Janice CalviRuimerman
(April 21, 2023) — The Wildcats of Lyme-Old Lyme came to Haddam on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, with one goal: to win regardless of the cost. This game was unlike any thus far; there seemed to be a different vibe, an overly aggressive field, and a feral defense determined to address this HK team.
Lyme-Old Lyme’s offense was quick to jump through the Cougars defensive line, scoring three goals within the first few minutes of the game. These Wildcats ran circles around the net, taunting Sophomore Goalie Gabrielle (Gabby) Williams and her defense, Senior Julianna (J-Gag) Gagliardi along with Juniors Te’a Norman, Peyton Tyler, and Brigitte Battistoni. Despite several shots on goal, the Cougars could not get the net.
With minutes before the half, Senior Captain Audrey Wrinn landed a bounce shot with an assist by fellow Senior Captain Georgia Cancroft to put HK on the board. With the hope and will to come back as “a second-half team,” HK began to win possession.
On draw, Senior Captain Audrey Wrinn launched to Junior Samantha (Sammy) Ruimerman, who quickly passed back to Audrey to carry the ball downfield to open player, Sophomore Seanna (SeaSea) Ruimerman to score. This play was like catnip for these Wildcats as the Lyme-Old Lyme defense moved quickly to double team the attack, resulting in the Cougars’ first loss of the season with a score of 5-9 Old Lyme. Goals were scored by Senior Captain Audrey Wrinn 1 and Sophomore Seanna (SeaSea) Ruimerman 4. This game was a clear cat and mouse play, having integrity and sportsmanship at a premium
Our HKHS Junior Varsity team faced the same fate. Despite the back-and-forth tie score in the first half of this game, the Junior Wildcats quickly took the lead in the second half. Clearly not going to take a second loss in the box, Sophomore Goalie Gabby Williams took the ball downfield as Sophomore Sonya Luneau held the net. Despite the missed goal, Gabby’s prowess and tenacity made this game a true spectator sport.
With a final score of 2-6 Lyme-Old Lyme, goals were scored by Freshman Dina Killroy.
Way to show sportsmanship and integrity, girls! Keep your heads up and sticks ready!
See the full season’s game schedule on HKHS Athletics website.
