By Janice Calvi-Ruimerman
(May 10, 2024) — A much-needed win for the Haddam Killingworth Girls Lacrosse team was had on Thursday, May 9, 2024, in Cromwell’s backyard.
The quick possession on draw and move to goal gave HK a strong lead within minutes of the start as Aly Campbell scored the first followed by Ava Ramino and then Sammy Ruimerman on the draw giving the Cougars three over the Panthers at the get. Claws came out as the Panthers sneaked by the Cougars defense for a two-goal score.
This only motivated the HK offense, as their attack team came to win with Aly Campbell scoring another, followed by Seanna “SeaSea” Ruimerman sinking two more shots to bring HK to a 6-2 lead going into the 2nd quarter.
HK’s defense was fire, as Brigitte Battistoni intercepted Panthers passes, and Peyton Tyler and Maddie Catalano created a tough Panthers press, which left Cromwell with no score into the half and HK gaining seven more goals.
Caroline “Iggy” Ignatuck, on a multi-pass play, hit the net for a score of 7-2. Then Jaimey DiNapoli hit two more with a steal and score then a penalty shot to raise the score 9-2. Next, co-captain Samantha “Sammy” Ruimerman ran two more in, followed by SeaSea Ruimerman for a 10-point lead forcing a running clock. Aly Campbell hit one more bringing HK to a 13-2 lead going into halftime.
The 3rd quarter provided HK’s starting line with a welcome rest as Sydney Wrinn took draw position with Ella Connelly and Lauren “Louie” Wiese on the circle. The next line of defenders, Peyton “PJ” McDonald, Maddie Catalano, and Sonya Luneau held strong as Goalie Gabby Williams guided her line, giving up only one to the Cromwell side.
Fielders Dina Kilroy, Chloe Engler, Chloe Oboma and Julia Bermingham forced turnovers to retain possession as HK continued to control the field. The starting line came back in in the 4th as HK persisted to govern the field exhibiting proficient stick skills, pushing their offense to multiple passes before even attempting to shoot on net. In the final quarter Aly Campbell and Caroline Ignatuck scored, igniting the board with a 15-3 win over Cromwell.
Game goals: Aly Campbell (4) Sammy Ruimerman (3) Ava Ramino (1) SeaSea Ruimerman (3) Caroline Ignatuck (2) Jaimey DiNapoli (2).
Amazing stick work and ball control. Keep it up, Girls. A fantastic win and incredible sportsmanship!
