Pennington School Field Hockey Secures First Prep B Championship

The Pennington School field hockey team has made history by clinching its first-ever Prep B championship. The Red Hawks triumphed over Montclair Kimberley Academy (MKA) with a final score of 2-1 on March 15, 2024. This victory marks a significant milestone, especially after the team faced disappointment in the previous two seasons against the same opponent.

Strong determination characterized the Red Hawks’ season, as Coach Kristin McCarthy noted, “We had this circled on our calendar since last year. We were completely focused on getting back to the championship, and one of our goals was to host it.” The Red Hawks successfully hosted the championship match, demonstrating their readiness and resolve.

Pennington’s victory improved their season record to an impressive 15-2, with only two losses to nationally ranked teams, Hill and Moorestown. This win also extends their winning streak to eight games during which they conceded just two goals. The championship match showcased exceptional talent, particularly from senior Genevieve Vallieres and freshman Clara Meccage. Vallieres scored the first goal and assisted Meccage for the second, solidifying her status as a key player in the match and achieving her 200th career point.

In the first half, both teams battled intensely without scoring. The breakthrough came in the second half when Vallieres successfully converted a corner to give Pennington a 1-0 lead. Shortly after, she delivered a perfectly timed pass to Meccage, who confidently netted the second goal, pushing the score to 2-0. Vallieres, who will continue her athletic career at Louisville, has already achieved 84 goals and 32 assists throughout her remarkable high school tenure.

With a two-goal advantage, Pennington’s defense took center stage. Although MKA managed to score once, the defensive unit, led by goalie Lillian Chiaravalotti, effectively thwarted further attempts. Chiaravalotti’s late-game diving save was crucial in securing the championship for the Red Hawks. Coach McCarthy emphasized the unity of the team, stating, “We are one team and every single person contributed to that win. It would not have been possible without the entire team.”

Looking ahead, Pennington has one final game scheduled against Hun on March 18, 2024. A victory in this match could secure second place in the Mid-Atlantic Prep League, but for now, the team is celebrating their historic achievement.

In other local field hockey developments, No. 6 Allentown advanced in the South Jersey Group II bracket with a decisive 5-0 victory over No. 11 Middle Township. The Redbirds, two-time Colonial Valley Conference champions, featured standout performances from Ella Sluder, who contributed two goals and reached 197 career points. Allentown will face No. 3 Ocean Township next.

No. 6 Notre Dame also made headlines, defeating Moorestown Friends 8-0 to progress in the Non-Public South Jersey bracket. Emma McVey led the team with a hat trick, contributing to an impressive offensive display.

Additionally, No. 5 Northern Burlington secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the South Jersey III bracket with a commanding 10-0 win against No. 12 Toms River South. Ella Morella had a standout performance with two goals and four assists, while Graziella Carnassale notched her second hat trick of the season.

As the season progresses, these teams continue to showcase their talent and determination, promising an exciting conclusion to the field hockey campaign in the region.