There has never been a season where the Walpole Porkers didn’t strive for yet another state championship, and this season was no exception. With two consecutive years of devastating losses to Andover, the team was ready for revenge; therefore, this game had both teams hungry to earn the title of Massachusetts 2023 Division I State Champions.
During the 2021 and 2022 season Walpole has made it all the way to the final rounds of the tournament, only to be met with a loss from Andover High School. These defeats have left the Porkers with more motivation than ever during this past 2023 season.
“I would definitely say my motivation was the desire for redemption. For the past two years, I have experienced a loss in the D1 State championship and I am determined to change that pattern.” said Captain Katie Colleran. “Every year when starting a new season I always have a bit of doubt if we will be able to meet the standards of the previous year, including this year, fresh off a runners up outcome my junior and sophomore year … but I know that this team is just as capable, if not more capable than previous years.”
Saturday, Nov. 18, had many fans driving to WPI college to cheer on the Porkers. From the start, the energy was high with the stands packed with Walpole families and fans, the team was ambitious to break the pattern of losses
“I really think this all depends on what type of energy we bring to the table as a team. If we come out flat then we won’t have a chance, but if we come together and start out each game strong then we will perform much better.” Colleran said.
Right off the bat, the Porkers came in strong with 3 offensive corners. With only a minute and a half left in the quarter, sophomore Kate Schneider made a strong pass to junior Izzy Adams who then ripped a shot from the stroke line right into the net. The first goal of the game was a huge accomplishment, but little did they know it would be their winning goal.
The second quarter became less consistent for both teams, however the energy was still high. With many attempts throughout each quarter, there were no goals in either net. Nearing the end of the half, Adams got carded and had to remain out of the game for the rest of the second quarter. Though the team was down a key player, that didn’t stop the Porkers from turning down any attempts Andover had at scoring.
With only one more half left to go, the pressure wore down. Andover was able to bring about two offensive penalty corners. This gave senior goalie Abby Jonhson the opportunity to make two huge saves in hopes of stopping any attempts of advancing. These defensive plays for the Porkers were something they weren’t going to let slide, the team was able to turn the field around and cause two defensive corners for Andover.
As the last 15 minutes were approaching, many shots were taken but nothing seemed to become a goal. As the game was nearing five and a half minutes left, Andover called a time out. This gave the Porkers time to recharge and get back on the field with hopes of scoring again.
Though Walpole was unsuccessful by scoring on the Andover goalie once more, the team successfully claimed their thirteenth D1 State Championship title. The seven year championship drought has now finally come to an end. All fourteen of the seniors can officially carry on the true legacy of being Walpole Porker Alumni.
“If you look on the walls in the gym you can see the banners of all the women that have won state championships for the Porkers, including almost all the coaches we have today. I think as a Porker, it is important to carry on the legacy that these women have worked hard to maintain for decades, and live up to the expectations and tradition that have been in place for a very long time.” Colleran said.
