After finishing the regular season with a convincing 9-1 win against top-ranked small school Rye Neck, the girl’s field hockey team headed into the playoffs with a 6-2 record. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a shift in the playoff bracket, placing Pelham in the Large Southern Westchester section. Despite being among much larger school districts, they placed 2nd in their section and faced 3rd ranked Scarsdale in the semi-final. In a thrilling game, the Pelicans won 3-2 in double overtime. Goals were scored by junior Eileen Mazzaro, senior Jane Dunbar, and the deciding goal was brushed in by senior Jenna Lavan with an assist from Mazzaro. With a huge effort on the defensive end by seniors Molly Terraciano, Alex Orlando, and sophomore goalie Katie Prisco, it was the all-around teamwork that led them to victory. 

Heading into the section final, the Pelicans knew it would not be an easy game. Mamaroneck was the top-ranked team in the section and was undefeated the entire regular season. However, knowing it would be the last game that the team would play together created an unmatched effort. 

Senior captain, Alex Orlando, said “Before the game, we were all definitely nervous but we knew that this would be our last game of the season so we went in with high energy!” In the first quarter, Mamaroneck netted a goal within the first 10 minutes, but that didn’t phase anyone. In the third quarter, the Pelicans bounced back with 3 goals, taking the lead 3-1. Goals were scored by sophomore Leila Brady, senior Jane Dunbar, and junior Eileen Mazzaro, leading the girls to be section champions. For the seniors on the team, it was a bittersweet experience. 

Senior Jenna Lavan said,” This team had a bond that was incomparable due to the COVID situation. Every step of the way we took it with a grain of salt and kept in mind that this was all we got so let’s make the most of it. The seniors couldn’t have dreamed of this outcome and we are all so thankful that it was a complete team effort that made it happen.”