On Oct. 10, the Valley field hockey team beat defending state champion Haddam-Killingworth for the first time in 15 years, 1-0, also handing the Cougars their first conference loss. The Warriors’ lone goal was scored by Francesca Daniels on a pass from Hannah VanBenschoten and Bryanna Tobin had five saves in goal.

“This is a huge win for us,” said Coach Beth McCabe-Powers. “I always knew we could do it, we just had to believe in ourselves and play with our hearts. Every member of the team today did an outstanding job and we worked so well together. The team makes me proud every day, but today is certainly special, very special.”

On Thursday, Oct. 24, the Valley Regional field hockey squad will take to the field for its last regular season home game when it hosts Westbrook and honors two long-standing team traditions. This year’s Senior Game—where all senior players are recognized during a pre-game ceremony and are together in the varsity game starting lineup—will have extra meaning as the Warriors will also play their annual Pink Game held each year in conjunction with the Knights. Preparations are being made now for the “pinking” of the field and players and for a special halftime fundraising effort, all to raise awareness and donations for breast cancer research. The program starts at 3:45 p.m. with the varsity game scheduled to start at 4 p.m. Game admission is free.