By Christopher DeMuth
Boys Soccer
The New Canaan boys soccer team faced another challenging stretch of competition this past week, dropping two conference matches against Ridgefield and Danbury.
The Rams hosted Ridgefield on October 14, and after a tight, defensive first half, the Tigers broke through in the second to secure a 2–0 victory. New Canaan’s back line played with energy early, keeping the Ridgefield offense quiet for much of the first 40 minutes, but the visitors capitalized on a pair of chances after the break. Despite the result, the Rams continued to show improvement in their passing game and team communication, particularly through the midfield.
Two days later, New Canaan traveled to face a strong Danbury squad on October 16. The Hatters jumped out to an early lead, but the Rams kept themselves in the match, battling hard until the end in what became a 3–1 loss. The lone New Canaan goal came in the second half as the Rams pushed forward on a counterattack, showing persistence even against one of the league’s most physical teams.
Girls Soccer
The New Canaan girls soccer team demonstrated both poise and grit this week, splitting a pair of games that showcased the team’s balanced attack and defensive strength.
On October 14, the Rams earned an impressive 3–0 win over Ridgefield at home. From the opening whistle, New Canaan dictated tempo and played with confidence, controlling possession through the midfield and creating multiple scoring chances. The defense, led by steady play in the back line, limited Ridgefield’s looks on goal, while the offense converted three solid finishes to put the game out of reach. It was a complete team performance that underscored the group’s chemistry and communication on the field.
Later in the week, on October 17, the Rams traveled to face Danbury and came up just short in a 3–2 loss. The match was competitive throughout, with New Canaan fighting back from a first-half deficit and scoring twice in the second to stay within reach. The Rams nearly found an equalizer in the final minutes, but Danbury’s late push secured the win.
Girls Volleyball
The New Canaan girls volleyball team delivered one of its best stretches of play all season, stringing together three straight victories in four days to solidify its position in the conference standings.
The winning streak began on October 15 with a road win over St. Joseph, where the Rams earned a 3–1 victory. Senior Anna Vertin and sophomore J. Olesnevich powered the offense with strong hitting, combining for several key kills that swung the momentum in New Canaan’s favor. Senior Mia Lockyer anchored the defense with 22 digs, keeping rallies alive and frustrating the Cadets’ hitters.
New Canaan followed that performance with a thrilling 3–2 win over Trumbull on October 17. The match went back and forth, with each team trading sets until the Rams took control in the fifth and deciding frame. Olesnevich led the way with 20 kills, while Vertin added 14, both showing consistency and confidence under pressure. The victory over a tough Trumbull team highlighted the Rams’ composure and teamwork in clutch moments.
The Rams capped their week on October 18 by sweeping Bridgeport Central in straight sets, 3–0. The offense was efficient from start to finish, led by junior Anna Fiorito, who tallied 14 kills. Freshman Yume Duncan also made her mark in her varsity appearance, contributing solid play at the net and serving line.
