It started out slow for the Blue Devils, as it took them seven games to find a win. Although the losing streak was tough, they managed to come back and get their first victory against Chatham. “We really pulled together as a team and realized we all had the same common goal and really wanted a win,” said senior captain Shoshana Handwerker. “Each season always has a rocky start as we learn to work together but to see where we end is always so rewarding.”
Although learning to work together was a major contributor to Westfield’s success later in the season, they also spent more time studying their opponents and finding ways to win. “We spent time watching film, both of ourselves and the other team,” said assistant coach Robert Ebert.
All of their hard work would be tested. On Feb. 24, the Blue Devils travelled to Chatham to compete in the first round of the Girls Hockey State Tournament. The Westfield program, established in 2016, had never won a state game; however, with junior Lauren Delaney’s hat trick, the Blue Devils made history and knocked out Chatham 6-4 to advance to the quarterfinals. “There’s a lot of prestige in winning a tournament game, so it was nice for the girls to experience that,” said Ebert.
With less than ten years of history, this team has seen many firsts and has undoubted potential. During the 2023-2024 season, the team won the Annis Cup for the first time in program history. “To be part of such a big moment for this team was so fun and rewarding,” said Handwerker. “Between the win this season and the cup last season, this team has come so far and I can’t wait to see where the program will go in the future.”
Unfortunately, the Blue Devils fell to Trinity Hall in the quarterfinals 8-3, but this does not discredit the remarkable season comeback, and the first state tournament win in program history. After a rough start to the season, the Blue Devils persevered to make history for their program, and their story is only just beginning.
“My takeaway from this season was definitely to keep a positive mindset,” said senior captain and goalie Jolie Bruder. “The more I worried about a team and their reputation, the more it impacted my play. Every game is winnable with a positive mindset.”
