The West Hartford Girls Soccer League also presented the Paul Glover Award at its championship weekend.

By Scott Zweig

A chilly morning turned into a beautiful afternoon last Saturday for a group of fifth and sixth grade girls from West Hartford. With rain in the forecast seemingly every weekend in October, the division’s championship game between the Pride (7-2-2) and the previously undefeated Courage (8-1-2) was rescheduled for Saturday, Nov. 4, at 8:30 a.m. at Glover Soccer Complex.

The Courage dominated possession in the first quarter, peppering the Pride with shots and pressure. But the Pride’s goalie, Reva Cohen, was determined.

The momentum shifted in the second quarter, as the Pride applied pressure of their own, leading to a goal by defender Isabella Panico. The third quarter featured chances by both sides, with goalies from both teams making several saves.

The Pride added to their lead in the fourth quarter on a spirited end to end run by defender Gianna Small, giving them a 2-0 advantage. When the final whistle sounded, the cheers could be heard for miles as the girls hugged their teammates, beaming with pride.

The Pride allowed only four goals the entire season, and Cohen did not allow a goal during the three-game playoff run.

Following the game, the division coordinator awarded the Paul Glover Award to Bella Kavanovick of the Courage. The award, named after longtime Juniors coach and former league president Paul Glover, is given every year to a player who demonstrates heart, determination, and grit throughout the season.

The WHGSL Junior Division Champion Pride celebrate with their coaches Scott Zweig, Joe Ferreira and Zobia Shakil. Courtesy photo

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