In a commanding performance, Oak Knoll secured its position as the top team in New Jersey field hockey by defeating Camden Catholic 5-0 in the Non-Public final on November 15, 2023. This victory marks Oak Knoll’s 14th overall state championship and their 13th consecutive appearance in the state finals since the Non-Public category was introduced in 2013.
The final, held in Bordentown, showcased Oak Knoll’s balance and depth, traits that have been pivotal in their impressive run of 18 straight victories leading up to the championship. Quinn Rosciano emerged as a key player, scoring two goals and setting the tone early in the match. She netted her first goal just over two minutes into the game, giving Oak Knoll a swift lead.
Following Rosciano’s opening strike, Phoebe Laferriere quickly doubled the advantage, scoring at the 10:39 mark of the first quarter. This early offensive surge put Camden Catholic on the back foot, and the Royals maintained their momentum throughout the match.
In the second quarter, Rosciano scored again at the 6:13 mark, further extending the lead to 3-0. Lexi Cusimano capped off a dominant first half with a goal in the final two minutes, providing Oak Knoll with a commanding 4-0 advantage at halftime. Laferriere capped the scoring with her second goal of the game in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory with a brilliant breakaway move.
The match was particularly notable as it featured the running clock rule, which is applied when one team leads by five goals, highlighting the clear disparity in skill during this contest. Previously, the finals between these two teams had been closely contested, with the first five encounters decided by an average margin of just 2.2 goals.
Oak Knoll’s achievement stands out not only for its dominance in this championship but also for its flawless record against in-state competition this season. The team finished with a remarkable record of 21 wins and only 1 loss, underscoring their status as a powerhouse in New Jersey high school field hockey.
As the Royals celebrate this significant victory, they continue to build on a legacy that ranks fifth in New Jersey history for total state championships. The combination of skilled players like Rosciano and Laferriere, along with a deep roster, ensures that Oak Knoll remains a formidable force in future competitions.
