By: Kayla Rosen and Kayla Parameswaran

  The Rye Country Day School Girls Varsity Hockey team is making its mark this season. Now in their second season competing in the FAA league— which includes Greenwich Academy, Greenwich Country Day School, Sacred Heart, and King School— the team has built strong chemistry. They currently hold a 7-7-1 overall record and a 2-2 league record, placing third overall.

    “Our team dynamic is strong this season, and it’s showing in how we communicate, make tape-to-tape passes, and work together on the ice,” said Summer Sisitsky ‘27. With many returning players and a group of new teammates who quickly found their place, the Wildcats have built a dynamic that feels both “comfortable and motivating,” according to captain Freya Collins ‘26. The roster includes six seniors: Maguire Estill ‘26, Freya Collins ‘26, Tia Agarwal ‘26, Clare Keating ‘26, Kate Keating ‘26, and Olivia Bongiorni ‘26, whose experience has helped anchor the team. “We have the best chemistry of any team,” Collins says.

    The Wildcats’ chemistry has translated directly into victory on the ice. Early in the season, RCDS set the tone with a 3-0 shutout against Sacred Heart on December 3rd. Another major highlight this season was a 3-2 victory over Portledge, a probationary team seeking entry into the FAA league. Their head coach, Coach Zimmerman, noted, “It’s the first time we’ve beat them in the six years I’ve been coaching.” Preparation off the ice, including film study, focused practices, clean breakouts, and strong forechecking and backchecking, has played an important role in their success. 

    Another standout moment came during Wildcat Weekend with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Sacred Heart, featuring goals from Madison French ‘29 and the game-winner from Sisitsky. Reflecting on the team’s resilience, Coach Zimmerman said, “More recently the team is finding their groove…The most impressive aspect of this team is that we fight until the last buzzer.” The victory energized the school community and gave the Wildcats a 2-1 season record against Sacred Heart.

    Along with their success, the team has embraced its lighthearted personality. Collins shared that one of the team’s ongoing challenges has simply been getting everyone to the rink on time and ready to go. To stay motivated through a long season, Collins emphasized the importance of setting periodic goals and focusing on individual development.

    With the FAA League Tournament beginning February 25, the team is focused on finishing strong and carrying momentum into postseason play. Looking ahead, Coach Zimmerman noted, “We’re losing a big part of our team next year with a core group of six seniors…they will certainly be hard to replace.” Still, optimism remains with a young goalie expected to move up to varsity and potential eighth graders preparing to join the program. For now, however, the team’s focus stays on this season as they head into the postseason confident, motivated, and ready to continue skating towards success.