Girls First FCIAC Track & Field Championship Since 2001
New Canaan girls’ indoor track waited 23 years for this moment. When it finally arrived, the Rams didn’t just win—they dominated, delivering a complete team performance that signaled their resurgence as an FCIAC powerhouse.
Led by senior Charlotte Moor, New Canaan clinched its first league title since 2001 with a 71-point effort at Staples High School, outpacing runner-up Greenwich (66) and third-place Staples (55). The Rams’ triumph was built on a foundation of endurance, depth, and a group of athletes who understood their roles and delivered in the biggest moments.
Moor played a crucial role in the victory, winning the 3,200 meters in 11:13.31 and securing the championship before the meet’s final event. She also claimed the 1,000 meters and anchored the Rams’ victorious 4×800 relay, making her the single biggest points contributor in the team’s effort. Her excitement reflected the collective joy of her coach and teammates, as the team’s hard work had paid off beyond expectations.
The coaching staff emphasized the dedication of the distance runners and the significant improvement seen in other areas such as hurdles and field events. The complete team effort was evident as New Canaan showcased its well-rounded strength in multiple disciplines.
New Canaan’s win was no fluke. The Rams placed in multiple disciplines, showcasing the depth that ultimately won them the title. Gabrielle Savelli’s fourth-place finish in the 1,600 meters provided crucial mid-distance points, while the team’s fourth-place finish in the 4×400 relay solidified their standing at the top.
Field events played a major role as well. Lauren Smith won the shot put with a throw of 36 feet, 3.25 inches, setting the standard for New Canaan’s strength in the event. In the high jump, Cora Shooshan cleared 5 feet, tying for first place and adding another key victory to the team’s total. Kate Frangione’s fifth-place finish in the pole vault further highlighted the team’s versatility.
The team’s collective achievement was underscored by strong performances across multiple categories, with medals earned in hurdles, distance events, and field competitions. This balance and consistency were the defining characteristics of New Canaan’s success.
The Rams’ triumph wasn’t just about the numbers—it was a statement of how far the program has come. New Canaan last won an FCIAC title in 2001, completing a dominant five-year run before the championship window closed. This year’s squad was aware of the history but remained focused on making its own mark rather than being burdened by past success.
The coaching staff and athletes recognized the significance of restoring New Canaan to the top of the FCIAC rankings. Their dedication throughout the season translated into a championship-winning performance that demonstrated both resilience and skill.
With their victory, the Rams now hold seven total FCIAC championships, but this one stands apart. It represents more than just a return to form—it sets the stage for the future. With a deep and balanced team, New Canaan is positioned for sustained success, and the coaching staff believes this is just the beginning.
For now, the team will savor the accomplishment. After 23 years, the wait was long, but the reward was well worth it.
Girls Ice Hockey 17-2 with Tough Loss to Blue Wave
New Canaan girls ice hockey suffered a 2-1 defeat to Darien on February 9 at the Darien Ice House, marking their second loss of the season. The Rams led 1-0 after two periods before Darien responded with two third-period goals to secure the victory.
New Canaan sophomore goaltender Macyn Callahan made 25 saves in a strong effort, but Darien broke through midway through the third period when Lila Florita set up Adriana Gromelski, who found the top corner of the net to tie the game. Three minutes later, Teagen Josef’s shot rebounded to Mia Avalos, whose follow-up attempt rolled up Callahan’s stick and into the net for the eventual game-winner.
New Canaan’s lone goal came late in the second period when Ciara Bell capitalized on a feed from Isabella Hanna, giving the Rams a temporary lead. Despite generating multiple scoring opportunities, including a three-minute power play in the first period and a breakaway attempt by Serena O’Connor, New Canaan was unable to extend its advantage.
With the loss, New Canaan dropped to 17-2 overall and 5-2 in FCIAC play, while Darien improved to 14-0 and 7-0 in conference competition. Both of the Rams’ losses this season have come against Darien.
Earlier New Canaan secured a dominant 6-2 victory over La Salle Academy (RI) on February 1. The Rams set the tone with four first-period goals and maintained control throughout the contest. Tully led the offense with two goals and two assists, while Curri and Vigano each recorded a goal and two assists. O’Connor, Hanna, and Madrid also contributed offensively. Callahan made 19 saves in net.
New Canaan remains in contention for a top seed in the upcoming FCIAC Tournament.
Boys Hockey Unbeaten, Tops Ridgefield, Draws with Darien
New Canaan’s boys ice hockey team remains unbeaten as the 2024-25 regular season nears its final stretch, following a decisive 6-1 win over Ridgefield on February 8 and a hard-fought 1-1 tie against rival Darien on February 10. The Rams, ranked No. 1 in the state, now stand at 16-0-1 overall and 8-0-1 in FCIAC play, holding firm atop the standings.
Against Ridgefield, New Canaan asserted its dominance early, scoring twice in the opening period and adding three more in the second. Bryce Lyden led the offensive charge with a hat trick, while Rogan Lowe contributed a goal and two assists. Eddie Harrison and Andrew Brandt each found the back of the net, and assists came from Ronan Hillman, Brayden Robie, Bauer Gammill, Drew Harmon, Tony DelCarmine, Jack Crowell, and Jack Thompson. Goaltender Brendon Harmon made 15 saves, limiting Ridgefield to a single goal in the final period.
The Rams then faced their biggest challenge of the season against Darien, the state’s No. 2-ranked team, in a matchup that saw both teams battle through adversity, including a lengthy delay due to an injury. Darien struck first late in the opening period when Alexander Rentz capitalized on a pass from Gavin Samame, beating Harmon through the pads. New Canaan responded in the second, tying the game with 3:03 remaining when Drew Harmon buried the rebound of a Caden Leslie shot.
Both teams created chances, but neither could break the deadlock through regulation or a 10-minute overtime. New Canaan outshot Darien 28-16, with Harmon delivering a standout performance in net, including several key stops in the first period. The Rams adjusted their lineup due to illness and injury, missing forward Brayden Robie and defenseman Cameron Lyden, but maintained their structure and composure.
With the postseason approaching, New Canaan remains in prime position for a deep run in both the FCIAC and CIAC tournaments. The Rams’ schedule does not ease up, with a crucial matchup against Fairfield Prep on the horizon, as they continue their push for a championship.
Rams Boys Basketball Home Winning Streak
New Canaan’s boys basketball team continued its dominance at home with a hard-fought 58-49 victory over St. Joseph on Monday night. The win avenged an earlier season loss to the Cadets and extended the Rams’ home winning streak to five games.
New Canaan came out firing in the first quarter, pushing the tempo and capitalizing on open shots. Henry Chandra and Simon Tchakarov provided early offensive spark, knocking down key baskets to give the Rams a comfortable lead. The defense, anchored by Andrew Esposito and Colin McKiernan, forced St. Joseph into difficult shots and limited second-chance opportunities.
The Cadets responded with a strong second quarter, led by Jayden Febus, who finished with 12 points.
Despite the Cadets’ efforts, New Canaan maintained its composure and entered halftime with a six-point lead. The Rams’ ball movement and perimeter shooting proved difficult for St. Joseph to contain, as multiple players contributed on the scoreboard.
St. Joseph made a push in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to four points behind a series of fast-break opportunities. However, New Canaan responded with a decisive scoring run, led by Chandra and McKiernan. Luke Robinson and Michael Smith provided key contributions off the bench, knocking down timely shots and adding energy on the defensive end. New Canaan’s depth has been a crucial factor during their winning streak, with multiple players stepping up each game.
As the fourth quarter began, New Canaan slowed the pace, working the clock and maintaining control. St. Joseph attempted to rally with full-court pressure, but the Rams handled it effectively, sealing the game at the free-throw line.
With the victory, New Canaan improved to 8-4 on the season, solidifying its place as a contender in the FCIAC.
New Canaan will face another tough test on Thursday when they host Trumbull at 7:00 p.m. The Rams will aim to continue their home dominance and build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
