By Janice Calvi-Ruimerman
It was a game for the SENIORS and a win for HK.
(May 17, 2023) — On May 16, 2023, the Haddam Killingworth Senior girls took the field, not just to play, but to honor their season.
This game started with a single yellow rose as Haddam Killingworth presented Valley’s senior players and HK’s senior players with a symbol of friendship. Nine of HK’s team walked the field with their families. Some of these seniors have played all four years of high school, while some were first year players in 2023. Then, as tears were dried and emotions checked, the cougars took the field to beat Valley 14-4.
This game was truly a “senior moment” as every play, every pass was intended to create a space and an opportunity for senior players to score or make a “great play.” And these efforts paid off. Senior JV defender Kelsie Piela grounded balls for the HK possession, while Senior, first year player Julia Favalora, a defender, made an epic steal and long pass to fellow Senior, Captain Jenna Whitmer for a goal. First year player, senior Ellie Frith penetrated Valley’s defensive line to score her first goal of the season. And Senior varsity defender, Juliana (J-Gag) Gagliardi, with precise positioning, scored her “senior goal” as well. Brooklyn Bailey, Senior JV player was “in the house” as she scored on Valley, making the stands roar and the U10 HK players chant and cheer.
Additional goals were scored by senior captains Georgia Cancroft 2, Sophie Ramino 1, Jenna Whitmer 2, Audrey Wrinn 2, juniors Jamie DiNapoli 1 and Brigitte Battistoni 1, and sophomores Ava Ramino 1 and Seanna (SeaSea) Ruimerman 1.
Photo by Tulhan Crisculo
Congratulations, Class of 2023 players!!!!!
