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Fall Sports Highlights 10.8.18
Cross-Country - First Girls'
Oct. 6 at Williston Northampton School
Cross-Country - First Girls’ 18 vs. Kingswood Oxford School 37
Cross-Country - First Girls’ 33 vs. Williston Northampton School 26
Girls’ Cross-Country had a strong showing in Easthampton as it competed against Kingswood Oxford and the Williston Northampton School in its first dual meet of the season. The Martlets defeated Kingswood Oxford by a significant margin but lost a close battle with Williston Northampton, finishing seven points behind their squad (33-26). Annabelle Smith ‘21 placed first overall in the girls’ race, finishing in a time of 21:31, almost 30 seconds ahead of the next girls’ finisher. Miranda Douglass ‘21 and Olivia Goldstuck ‘21 rounded out a very strong showing by Westminster Fourth Formers, with all three runners (Smith included) finishing among the top six competitors in the race. Captain Maggie Chaves ‘19 and Bella Tawney ‘22 both had solid performances, with Tawney besting her time from last week by nearly 90 seconds. Michelle Wu '21 and Taylor Hill '22 finished sixth and seventh, respectively, for the Westminster harriers.
Cross-Country – First/Second Boys'
Oct. 6 at Williston Northampton School
Cross-Country - First Boys’ 20 vs. Kingswood Oxford School 39
Cross-Country - First Boys’ 15 vs. Williston Northampton School 50
The dual meet season began at Easthampton for the Martlet harriers as they took on the Williston Wildcats and Kingswood Oxford Wyverns on a cloudy, cool afternoon. The ground was saturated, which slowed down the racers, and Williston’s top runner was doggedly on Emmett de Kanter’s ‘19 heels at the first mile. Meanwhile, Westminster’s pack of five runners was with the Williston No. 2. By mile two, de Kanter had opened up a commanding lead and the trailing pack had split a little, with three runners (Justin Schuster ’19, Daniel Pinckney ’20, Kieran Haug ‘21) encircling the Williston No. 2 and working together to pass him in the final mile, earning the Nos. 3-5 spots at the finish. Newcomer Dylan Holley ’20 closed out the scoring five in the No. 7 position, so Westminster would finish with 20 points. Elliott Kennard ‘19 and Will Rizzo ‘21 were successful displacers, finishing ahead of Kingswood’s top runner and adding points to the Williston score, giving them 39.
In the Second Boys’ Cross-Country race, Alex Ellis ‘20 would finish first overall but a strong pack of Williston runners between him and the next runner, Hudson Stedman ‘21, would ensure the Wildcats the victory. That said, Westminster had some tremendous finishes. Classmates David DeFronzo ‘19 and Nate Chaves ‘19 raced each other down the stretch; Spencer Kwan ‘22, Raymond Liu ‘22 and Grant Pieter ‘22 all had tremendous sprints against opponents in the final 200 yards, as did Ral Reyes ‘21. Will Warner ‘22, after a very fast first mile, was back in action after nursing an injury for the past few weeks, and his roommate, James Beit ‘22 had a strong kick at the end. Nice work all-around.
Field Hockey - First Girls'
Oct. 3: Field Hockey - First Girls’ 4 vs. Miss Porter's School 0
Westminster played some good field hockey in both halves Oct. 3. Gemma Green '21 and Greta Baker '19 scored in the first half with nice assists from Claire Taylor '21. In the second half, lots of players contributed well with Bennett Ghriskey '22 and Sam DeLeo '21 making two strong plays to score. Westminster looks ahead with the clear understanding that the team needs to be a little more selfish and determined when it has possession in the circle.
Oct. 5: Field Hockey - Third Girls’ 2 vs. Taft School 1
Oct. 6: Field Hockey - First Girls’ 0 vs. Loomis Chaffee 0
Westminster played nice field hockey, and, despite dominating territory and possession, struggled to meaningfully test the Loomis goalkeeper. The Martlets played superbly, and fought extremely hard, but they will need to find the finishing drive if they are to come away from games with results that reflect the passage of play. All credit to Loomis for its dogged and brave defense.
Field Hockey - Second Girls'
Oct. 3: Field Hockey - Second Girls’ 5 vs. Miss Porter's School 0
Jenna Kosior '21 opened up scoring for Westminster 10 minutes into the game, collecting a ball off the keeper's pads and sending it home. Eight minutes later, Eliza Polukhin '19 beautifully dodged the keeper and sent a hard ball into the cage. With minutes left into the half both Polukhin and Abby Moss '20 notched a goal, fed by Rebecca Sargent '20 and Halli Keenan '21 respectively. Moss finished off scoring in the second half with a beautiful shot to the far side of the cage. It was a great overall team effort against a determined Miss Porter's squad.
Oct. 6: Field Hockey - Second Girls’ 0 vs. Loomis Chaffee 2
Westminster faced a relentless Loomis squad on its own turf Oct. 6. Loomis connected early in the first half after a battle in front of the cage. Westminster continued putting pressure on the Loomis keeper in the first and second half but was not able to find the back of the cage. A late goal in the second half by Loomis rounded out the scoring for the game. Kyani Jemmotte ‘20 played an excellent game in cage with more than 10 saves, including one on a penalty stroke.
Soccer - First Girls'
Oct. 3: Soccer - First Girls’ 0 vs. Miss Porter's School 2
Oct. 6: Soccer - First Girls’ 0 vs. Loomis Chaffee 3
First Girls' Soccer headed to Loomis Chaffee for an evening under the lights against one of the most talented squads in the Founders League. The Martlets met the Pelicans a month ago for a scrimmage and their growth and development since then was evident in their play for the 80-minute contest. The Martlets were down by one just four minutes into the first half, but they battled and challenged the Loomis defense and midfield with opportunities to equalize throughout the half. Despite a few shots on goal, the Martlets found themselves down 0-2 at half — down, but not out. Westminster continued to commit to its system of play, working the ball in and out of the midfield and center back Jaclyn Laplante '20 turned in a brilliant game, frustrating the Loomis attack countless times. The final score, 0-3, shows that Loomis was a strong squad and played a great game, but it also shows the Martlets of First Girls' Soccer continue to get better with each game and practice.
Soccer - First Boys'
Oct. 3: Soccer - First Boys’ 1 vs. Williston Northampton School 2
The Martlets dropped a tough one on the road against Williston on a fast turf surface. Williston opened the scoring on a break down in the back from the Martlets. Westminster would get on the board later in the first half from a nice cross from Zach Papapetros '20 to Walker Stevens '19 who hammered a ball into the back of the net. Williston would extend its lead to 2-1 on a PK with only a few minutes left in the first half. Westminster would have plenty of pressure throughout the second half but were not able to convert. The team wrench and also player of the game selected by the Williston coaches would go to Nate Constantino '19, who put together another great game in the center back and midfield. Lucas Wahlberg '21 would finish the game with three saves including one partial breakaway in the first half.
Oct. 6: Soccer - First Boys’ 1 vs. Kingswood-Oxford School 2
Westminster started off very slow giving up a PK very early in the first half. KO would press and were able to take a 2-0 lead into halftime. Westminster would have a very strong second half and have plenty of opportunities to score. Finally, midway through the second half Zach Papapetros '20 would knock home a great hard low shot. The Martlets would press until the end but come up short again. Peyton Knauf ’19 would finish with three saves. The team wrench would go to Papapetros not only for his goal but his hustle up top. The player of the game would be awarded to Nate Constantino '19.
Soccer - Second Girls'
Oct. 3: Soccer - Second Girls’ 3 vs. Miss Porter's School 4
As in their first home game, the girls dug themselves a first-half hole that proved too deep to climb out from. The visiting Daisies scored four unanswered goals before halftime, the first on a free kick just three minutes in, and the second just eight minutes later on shot from outside of the box. The Martlets generated three good chances in the ensuing few minutes, but gave up two more goals just after the midway point – one was another long shot, the other was an own goal when a clearing attempt spun off a defender’s foot. Four more good chances for the hosts came to naught in the remaining minutes of the half, giving the girls a monumental task for the second frame. Needing an early boost, the girls got it when Cecilia Raymond '20 converted on a breakaway just five minutes in. She would score again midway through the half, stuffing home a loose ball from close range after Susie Mahoney '20 beat three defenders on the dribble and sent a shot off the keeper’s hands. Mahoney would get a goal of her own after gathering in a through ball from Lauren Way '20, setting up an exciting final eight minutes. Unfortunately, the equalizer didn't come, but the girls can still feel good about their refusal to quit and the quality of their play on the day. The game shoutout goes to Hailey Tullo '22, who hustled her way into numerous plays and made a lot of good touches, including a long run down the wing to set up a good chance on goal. Mention must also be made of Jane Ogden '19, who played well in her first start at defense.
Oct. 6: Soccer - Second Girls’ 2 vs. Loomis Chaffee 2
A quiet first half in which both teams played carefully led to a scoreless draw at the intermission, with only a few long-range shots from the home side for the fans to cheer about. The second half was a different story. The hosts got on the board quickly, converting a nifty play off a corner kick with a nice one-time shot on a cross to the far post. The field remained tilted in favor of the Pelicans for the next 20 minutes, producing numerous threats on the Martlet net. The pressure paid off in the 64th minute when Loomis doubled its lead. A deep penetration led to a ball fed to the penalty spot; the Loomis forward was more determined to get to the ball. It would have been easy for the Martlets to fold, having expended so much energy defending, but the lead was erased almost immediately. Cecilia Raymond '20 scored on a pair of breakaways within the next four minutes, coolly converting her first two chances of the game. The last 12 minutes saw both sides penetrate deeply into the opposing end. The Martlets dodged a bullet when a Loomis free kick from just outside of the box sailed high, but the best chance for the game-winner came with just seconds remaining when Susie Mahoney '20 got behind the Pelican defense again, but was unable to get a good shot off a bouncing ball. Shoutouts go to Ola Szopa '20, who tenaciously handled attacks down her flank and showed poise on the ball; and to Ridgely Green '20, who was a dynamo in midfield, winning countless balls all over the field.
Soccer - Second Boys'
Oct. 3: Soccer - Second Boys’ 1 vs. Williston Northampton School 0
Second Boys' Soccer earned a good 1-0 win with a first half goal from David Harris '21. Khalil Walker '19 played an important role in protecting the slim lead, either tracking back and covering the flank or pressing up the wing and offering an attacking threat. Ben Huisman '20 continues with his strong performances in defense and is proving himself a strong team player. The game itself was evenly matched, yet Westminster worked hard in the right areas to grind out the win.
Oct. 6: Soccer - Second Boys’ 2 vs. Kingswood Oxford School 0
Second Boys’ Soccer completed an excellent win against a determined Kingswood Oxford team. The team knew how difficult the game would be during Kingswood's parents' weekend and it raised itself to the challenge. Linc Dines '21 finished an excellent chance in the first half with a curving effort that squeezed in past the keeper. The boys were dominant in possession but kept coming up against a hard working Kingswood defense. Tunji Osho-Williams '21 enjoyed a standout performance in defense, and seemed to be everywhere there was danger. Henry Mitrano '19 had one of his best games and showed the leadership skills the coaches expect of him. The second goal came on the counter attack with Wylie Clarke '21 coolly slotting past the keeper under pressure. This was a great team effort and the highlights would have something positive to say about every member of the team. The coaches are immensely proud of their efforts.
Soccer - Third Girls'
Oct. 6: Soccer - Third Girls’ 0 vs. Loomis Chaffee 7
It was a long hour of play on the fields of Loomis Chaffee, as Third Girls’ Soccer lost 7-0 to Loomis. Being forced to play six on six on a small field kept Westminster from spreading the ball around and allowed a few of the Loomis players to control the field. Several players showed very good improvement as the team continues to grow: Mairead DeFronzo '20 and Olivia Olney '22. The team welcomed back several key players from injury, including Rachel Ha '21.
Soccer - Third Boys'
Oct. 3: Soccer - Third Boys’ 2 vs. Taft School 2
After two losses, Westminster proved to Taft that it is to be taken seriously. William Mazzaro '21 started the scoring with a header off a pinpoint accurate feed from Nate Swift '19. The Red Rhinos responded by threading a ball past keeper Carson Roth '19, who had an altogether fine game, which included a superb save on a penalty kick late in the game. Before the first half was over, Drew Brownback '19 scorched a Taft defender and netted his first goal of the season with a beautiful strike to the far corner, giving the Martlets a 2-1 lead. In the second half, Westminster pressed the Rhinos hard only to witness one of its opponents’ weaker shots find the shallow side of the net. With the game tied, the Martlets put forth Herculean effort to score, but they just couldn't capitalize on what felt like myriad opportunities; the game ended in a stalemate. Westminster also received strong performances from Rex Flinn '21, Jack Luppino '21, Zach Eckerson '21 and Ian Lee '21.
Oct. 6: Soccer - Third Boys’ 1 vs. Loomis Chaffee 0
After weathering a strong first half by a much-improved Loomis squad, Carson Roth '19 ignited Westminster's offense after halftime, winding and wheeling and distributing from the striker position until he scored the game's only goal (his first of the season) on a perfectly timed chip from the edge of the box. The second half altogether belonged to the Martlets as they set a noticeable tone. One bystander described them as "possessed" and "like a bunch of soccer Vikings." Besides Roth, the visitors received strong hustle on the wings from Zachary Burelle '20, Ian Lee '21 and Brad Donegan '20 while Nate Swift '19 and Max Brownback '21 played the midfield with creativity and style. William Scott ‘20, Wes Oltsch ‘20, Roman Mitchell ‘20 and Kendrick Freeman ‘21 led the committee-style defense. Last but not least, Cameron Jury '19, Westminster's veteran keeper, held Loomis in check for all 70 minutes, preserving the shutout and reminding everyone that, above all, teamwork wins out.
Soccer - Fourth Boys'
Oct. 3: Soccer - Fourth Boys’ 3 vs. Taft School 0
As summer refused to let go in Simsbury, the boys played a physical group of Rhinos from the Taft school. The game began with great play around midfield and remained scoreless for the first half. Both Taft and Westminster had a penalty kick in the first half. Both missed. Bennett Ostern ‘21 was marvelous in the net for the Martlets. Alex Unruh ‘22 and Peter Miller ‘22 also had chances in the first half. With the score knotted at 0-0, the boys took the field in the second half. Ten minutes later Baker Morton ‘22 played a beautiful corner kick to the right foot of Ben Mihailovich ‘22. Mahailovich’s ball found the back of the net. Then the Martlets took control. Alex Tonioni ‘22 shut down all Rhino charges. Then Niclas Swahn ‘22 served a beautiful ball to Mihailovich. Once again Mihailovich beat the Rhino netminder. With a 2-0 lead, Westminster turned up the pressure. Charlie Pappas ‘22 played a ball across the penalty box. Newt Cutler ‘22 found that ball on his right foot and beat a diving Rhino keeper. Westminster led 3-0 and that is how the game ended. Miller controlled the midfield, Tonioni controlled the defense, and Morton, Max Hong ‘22, and Mihailovich controlled the front. Westminster kept the pressure on the Rhinos all game.
Oct. 6: Soccer - Fourth Boys’ 5 vs. Deerfield Academy 1
As autumn made its first appearance in northern Massachusetts, the boys took on the big green of Deerfield Academy. Alex Unruh ‘22 was the first half goalkeeper for the Martlets. Unruh and the Westminster defense were unbreakable. Alex Tonioni ‘22 and Kade Smith ‘22 shut down every Deerfield attack. Meanwhile, the Westminster pressure was relentless. In the 15th minute, Brian Opdenaker ‘21 used his left foot to serve the ball to the right foot of Cooper Kistler ‘22. Kistler’s one-timer found the back of the net and the Martlets led 1-0. Five minutes later, Westminster had a corner kick. Baker Morton ‘22 lined up the ball and served it beautifully through the box to Ben Mihailovich ‘22. Mihailovich touched it past the Green keeper. The first half then finished with Westminster ahead 2-0. Because their coach has trouble counting to 10, the Martlets began the second half with nine field players. Unruh, now at forward, received a tremendous ball from William Mell ‘21. Unruh then beat two Deerfield defenders and placed the ball in the upper right-hand corner of the net. While it was not intentional, Westminster scored while playing one man down. Leading 3-0 and playing with all 10 field players, Morton then played possibly his best ball of the year. From 30 yards out, Morton bent one to the opposite corner of the goal. It was a beautiful ball and the lead became 4-0. After a Deerfield goal, Peter Miller ‘22 found Mihailovich streaking through the box. Mihailovich booted the ball into the back of the net. Three minutes later, the game ended in a 5-1 Martlet victory.
Water Polo - First Boys'
Oct. 6: Water Polo - First Boys’ 5 vs. Wilbraham & Monson Academy 10
Although only a month into the season, at different times during the game Oct. 6, Westminster looked patient, confident and capable in the water. The Martlets opened the scoring with a nice offensive possession, moving the ball up the wing and finding Rich Mugler ‘22 in a good position to separate and take a shot that found the back of the net. Owen Murphy ‘22 followed shortly after with another goal, putting Westminster up 2-0 early in the first quarter. Wilbraham & Monson would score the next three goals, climbing into the lead 3-2 at the end of the first quarter. Despite growing a little frantic with the ball and squandering possessions, this was the best quarter of the season for Westminster. The four lane pool at Wilbraham & Monson caught the Martlets by surprise, and spatially they never really found footing. As the game wore on, Westminster struggled to maintain composure with the ball and advance effectively into the offensive half court. At times the ball seemed like a hot potato, and passes landed in places where the opponent was able to steal it easily. Hunter Hoogkamp ‘21 tallied two nice goals, beating the goalie with well-placed shots from tough angles. Murphy added another late in the third to make the game 5-10 with Wilbraham in the lead. Despite the score and some frustration with ball control, the game was played well. Wilbraham was able to rely on its size and strength to keep any chance at a comeback impossible. Both teams played fair, and competed hard. Lots to build upon as Westminster looks to host its first water polo match against Deerfield on Wednesday.
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