For the fifth time in program history– and the second consecutive year– the Mamaroneck Field Hockey team has claimed a state championship. The Tigers secured their title with a thrilling 2-1 double-overtime victory against the Guilderland Dutchmen at Arlington High School. This triumph cemented their ranking as the top team in New York State and the third best team in the nation.
The Tigers’ success is a testament to the leadership of Coach Patricia Miller, who became the varsity head coach just three years ago. Before stepping into her current role, Miller served as the head coach for the junior varsity team and the varsity team’s assistant coach. Her emphasis on rigorous off-season training has helped shape the Tiger’s into the powerhouse program they continue to be.
After an undefeated 2023 season, the Tigers entered the 2024 season with high expectations to live up to. Rising to the challenge, they delivered an unbeaten regular season (22-0), outscoring their opponents by an astonishing 151-6.
Their dominance continued in the postseason, starting with a decisive 6-0 win over Roy C. Ketcham to secure the Section 1 title. A commanding performance against Rome Free Academy in the state semifinals set the stage for the championship showdown against Guilderland on Sunday, November 17.
The Tigers came out strong in the first half, maintaining consistent possession and displaying what Captain Clare Greaney (‘25) described as a “family-like bond.” Their seamless passing and relentless pressure kept the ball above the 50-yard line, but Guilderland’s senior goalkeeper, Alexis Georgeadis, was a formidable opponent.
Despite numerous attempts, Mamaroneck remained scoreless until midway through the third quarter, when Lily Brickman broke the deadlock to give the Tigers a 1-0 lead. Brickman notes her reserved excitement upon scoring the goal stating that she was “relieved…but knew it wasn’t enough.” As the clock ticked down in the fourth quarter, the Tigers appeared poised for victory. But with less than a minute remaining, Guilderland’s Olivia Bigness capitalized on a penalty corner, scoring the equalizer and forcing overtime.
Overtime rules shifted the format to 7-on-7 for a 10-minute period. Captain Catherine D’Arcy, a Johns Hopkins field hockey commit, describes her anticipation heading into extra time, explaining how she “tried to ignore [her] stress and remain focused.” The Tigers maintained their offensive dominance in the first overtime, with D’Arcy earning a penalty stroke opportunity.
However, Georgeadis once again rose to the occasion, keeping Guilderland in the game.
With the state title on the line, the Tigers entered the second overtime with increased intensity and determination. Just minutes into the period, D’Arcy delivered the decisive blow– a powerful drive from just inside the circle that found the back of the net.
As the ball hit the goal, the Tigers stormed the field, celebrating around goalie Penelope Noorgard in a mix of joyous tears and cheers. The team returned to Mamaroneck High School to a parade of fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances.
While the 2024 season has just concluded, the Tigers are already looking to the future. Lily Brickman emphasized the team’s commitment to continued excellence, stating that the “future for the field hockey program is bright,” and she looks forward to the “next generation” of players.
