SOMA Living August 2024

ULTIMATE FRISBEE Columbia High School’s Ultimate Frisbee teams showcased their prowess at the New Jersey State Championships, with the Sparkle Motion Varsity team (CHS Ultimate Gxrls) capturing their third consecutive title. Dominating the field, they defeated Watchung with a striking 13-1 score in the finals, capping a tournament run with a 39-1 record. Meanwhile, Maplewood/South Orange Middle School’s A team continued their winning streak, securing their second state championship with a 13-3 victory over Westfield. The tournament highlighted impressive performances across various levels. Sparkle Motion JV earned a commendable third-place finish, while the boys/open JV A team tied for fifth with Northern Valley. The boys/open Varsity team reached the semifinals but was edged out by Westfield, who ultimately lost to Montclair in the finals.

Individual accolades were numerous, with Eileen Conway, co-captain of Sparkle Motion, honored as the New Jersey Player of the Year. Her teammates, including co-captain Sabrina Manion and Soph Irfani, were recognized on the All-State first team. Ivy Bailey, Sara Dybner, Icelin Gonzales, Caelum Ritzdorf, and Nory Van Rhyn also received All-State second team honors. This event not only highlighted competitive spirit but also the burgeoning talent within the local youth. The middle school fielded three teams, with the B team notably defeating last year’s third-place finishers, The Center School, in a thrilling 11-10 match. As the season concludes, these victories underscore the bright future of Ultimate Frisbee, a sport with deep roots in SOMA community. Congratulations to all participants for their exceptional skill and sportsmanship during the season.

Photo courtesy of Yasmeen Jackson Anderson

Photo courtesy of Dave Berkwitz

NJ player of the year - Eileen Conway

Sparkle Motion Varsity and JV teams at NJ States

Photo courtesy of Karl Mansfield

Photo courtesy of Kat Alexander

Middle School A team with coach Jason Weinstein

Open Varsity Team

AUGUST 2024 | SOMA LIVING 27

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