This past weekend the A and B teams both traveled to San Diego State University to compete in the CWPA Southwest Regional Championship. The teams were seeded 2nd and 5th respectively. Following the first games, the team honored the graduating seniors. 4 seniors were honored with flowers and posters: Amanda Martilla, Sarah Horne, Kimberly Holland, and Isabel Cerna. 

The A team started off with their first matchup against Grand Canyon University. After a slow start, the team won 18-2. Later that day, the A team faced hosts San Diego State University ‘A’. After a brutal game, the Tritons fell to the Aztecs, 6-5. This loss meant that their season had come to an end. The next day, in the consolation final, the Tritons fought for 3rd place, against San Diego State University ‘B’. The season ended with a bang, the ladies winning 15-2.

There were notable performances from many athletes on the roster. Overall, Julia Derunes kept the momentum going all weekend, ending with 7 goals, 4 assists, 5 steals, and 3 penalties drawn. Offensively, Sarah Horne led the offense with 8 goals, 3 assists, and 3 ejections drawn. Defensively, Natalie Kaplanyan shut down the other team’s top threats, racking up 8 steals and 1 field block, while also putting 3 goals in the back of the net. Another impressive feat came from sprinter Kayleigh Dennen who won all 7 of the sprints that she took part in. 

The B team had a fantastic weekend to end an already impressive season. The team started off with a matchup against San Diego State University ‘B’. After being down 4-1 going into the final quarter, the team battled back, but ultimately fell short, losing 6-7. The Triton’s had little time to dwell, as they went right into their next battle against the University of Arizona. The team maintained control of the game from the very first quarter and won 10-5. The next day, the team came back for the 5th place game. The last time they faced their opponent, the University of California, Irvine, it was a nailbiter and this time would be no different. The score was 2-2 at the end of the first and 4-4 at half. In the end, the anteaters came out on top by just one goal, placing the tritons in 6th place in the region.

Every player of the B team contributed positive stat points this weekend. Like every previous tournament, goalie Jillian Horn continued to dominate in the goal. She had 14 blocks and 2 steals throughout the 3 games. Madison Plotkin had an impressive weekend, totaling 4 goals, 2 each of assists and steals. She also won 5/7 of the sprints that she competed in. Defensively, Elicia Dowell and Kimberley Van Meter each had 3 steals, and Dowell also recorded one field block.

Overall, we are incredibly proud of the fight put up by both teams. We wish the seniors who will be leaving us the best. Looking forward, the teams are excited to get back into the pool and begin training for next season. Join us next year as the teams take on the 2023-2024 season.