In a commanding performance, the No. 1 ranked Oak Knoll defeated No. 3 Camden Catholic 5-0 to claim the NJSIAA Non-Public championship on November 15, 2023. This victory marks Oak Knoll’s 14th overall state championship and their 13th consecutive appearance in the Non-Public final. The match took place at the Bordentown venue, where Oak Knoll showcased its depth and balance, extending its undefeated streak against in-state competition this season.
From the outset, Oak Knoll displayed its dominance. Just 2:03 into the game, Quinn Rosciano found the back of the net, assisted by Phoebe Laferriere. This early goal set the tone for a strong first half. Laferriere added another goal at 10:39 in the first quarter, pushing the lead to 2-0. The scoring continued in the second quarter, with Rosciano netting her second goal at 6:13 and Lexi Cusimano scoring just before halftime, giving Oak Knoll a commanding 4-0 advantage.
The final quarter saw Laferriere seal the victory with an impressive breakaway goal at 10:27. The decisive win marked a significant achievement for the Royals, who have not missed a Non-Public final since the category was added to the state championship schedule a decade ago.
This year’s final was particularly notable as it featured a running clock due to the score margin, a rare occurrence in a rivalry that has historically been closely contested. The first five state finals between these teams were decided by an average of just 2.2 goals, highlighting the emphatic nature of Oak Knoll’s victory this time.
The success of the team can be attributed to its consistent roster, which includes standout players like Rosciano and Laferriere, who have been key contributors throughout the season. Oak Knoll finished the season with an impressive record of 21-1, further solidifying its reputation as a powerhouse in New Jersey field hockey.
As the team celebrates this latest triumph, they reflect on a season marked by resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. The Royals have set a high bar for future competitions, and their performance in this final exemplifies the quality of talent present in New Jersey field hockey.
