By Janice Calvi-Ruimerman
(April 11, 2024) — The Haddam Killingworth High School Girls Lacrosse Team started the season with a battle against the North Branford Thunderbirds on April 9, 2024, resulting in an 8-6 loss.
Thunder was felt as HKHS lost multiple draw possessions, giving North Branford a quick 2-0 lead to close out the first quarter, despite junior goalie Gabby Williams’s unprecedented saves on goal.
As the HK Girls gained momentum in the second quarter, the team began to work together to gain control of the field. With possession on draw by Senior Brigitte Battistoni and a quick pass to Senior Co-Captain Sammy Ruimerman, HK got the ball down field to Senior Jamie DiNapoli for a shovel shot to put the Cougars on the board.
The tide began to turn as Junior Ava Ramino took a penalty shot after a foul call for shooting space to bring the game to a 2-2 tie. This gave HK the incentive they needed into the next quarter, where Senior Attack Aly Campbell shot HK into the lead with a 3-2 score. However, this also motivated the Thunderbirds, as they quickly came back, taking back the lead.
To gain control of the field, Ramino on draw kept the ball on HK’s side and into the stick of Senior Jamie DiNapoli, who passed to Senior Co-Captain Sammy Ruimerman for a goal to tie up the game for the second time.
As the stands roared so did the thunder as North Branford continued to push ahead of HK through penalty shots and possession turn overs. Sophomore Payton (PJ) McDonald surprised fans with an interception, moving the ball down field igniting the HK flame, but North Branford retained their lead.
Sticks up gave Senior Brigitte Battistoni the opportunity to steal the ball, sending it to an in-and-out goal by Senior Aly Campbell. Down by three, Ramino scored on a penalty shot, leaving HK with a score of 6 goals to North Branford’s 8. Haddam Killingworth’s defense showed their superiority and commitment, despite the loss of possession at the draw and turn-overs. Junior goalie Gabby Williams blocked nineteen shots on goal. The defensive line, Senior Co-Captain Te’a Norman, Senior Peyton Tyler, Junior Sonya Luneau and Sophomore Payton (PJ) McDonald, were a true force to be reckoned with.
Goals for this game were earned by Sammy Ruimerman (1); Aly Campbell (2); Jamie DiNapoli (1); and Ava Ramino (2).
Great game, Lady Cougars. Keep those sticks up!
Photo by Janice Calvi-Ruimerman
