Windham field hockey beats Hanover to repeat as D2 champions

BEDFORD – Another repeat in the books.

After losing just one game all season, the Windham High School field hockey team seemed poised to make a championship return. Facing an upstart Hanover team wasn’t easy, and it took a stellar defensive effort to pull out the 1-0 win and repeat as Division II champions.

“It’s pretty great,” said coach Katie Blair. “They worked hard to return here.”

Led by eight saves from senior goalie Abby Harris, the No. 2 Jaguars were able to shutdown No. 4 Hanover, who had upset top-seeded Souhegan to get to the title game.

“All year long they were so strong and proved to be one of the best in the state,” said Blair. “There’s no quit in them. It’s amazing what they did, they have hearts as big as they come.”

It was the 11th shutout Harris and the Jaguars pitched this season. Harris was able to stop a couple of key chances from the Marauders, led by Diana Schwarz, who had plenty of opportunities.

“(Harris) doesn’t have the most saves the state, but when called on, she’s incredible,” said Blair. “She’s been a stud for Windham. It’s incredible, I can’t describe the saves she makes, she always seems to be there.”

The Jags got on the board just 12 minutes into the opening half when Kenne Melvin tallied on a penalty corner.

After that, the defense stood tall and prevented the Marauders from finding the back of the cage. The Marauders had a few breakout chances denied, and when they did get chances on net, Harris was coming up with the saves.

The biggest opportunity Hanover had was when the clock had run out. The Marauders were awarded a penalty corner, but the Jaguars defense stepped up again.

The win meant Windham was the second team in the state to repeat after Timberlane took the Division I title earlier on Sunday.

“Every team is special, but also different,” said Blair of the repeat. “Getting there is different every year, who you beat and what you do. It’s great we won again, it’s an awesome feeling always, but each year is different.”

The Jags will only graduate five players and return seven starters who were all involved in both championship squads, meaning there’s no reason to think there won’t be at least an attempt at a three-peat.

“It’s crazy we have so much returning,” said Blair. “We teach them that getting there is special. They have the experience now with two and know the hard work that it takes. Hopefully, coming back here will give them what they need to know to make another run.”