Sports Spring Sports Ultimate

Ultimate Splits Games During Invitational

With the score tied at 9-9, Cameron Williams ’18 laid out in Lincoln-Sudbury’s end zone, sealing a deep throw to secure a win for Andover Ultimate Frisbee in the Andover Invitational. The team also faced off against Lexington, Somerville, and Masconomet at Greater Lawrence Tech. Despite the tough competition this Sunday, Andover still won half of its games in the invitational, claiming victories over Somerville and Lincoln-Sudbury.

The first game of the invitational was played without Co-Captain Darian Bhathena ’16, due to an elbow injury. This resulted in a tough loss against Lexington, with a tally of 11-7.

Following this match, Bhathena was able to come back onto the field, helping Ultimate come back from its loss with a 13-6 win against Somerville.

“The addition of Darian completely re-energized the squad. He always plays with such heart and energy and hustle and just invigorates the rest of us alongside of him. It was definitely tough for him watching from the sideline and not playing, so he got his mom to clear him from injury and came in and immediately added his size and athleticism to the team,” said Co-Captain James Wolfe ’17.

In an email to The Phillipian, Gherardo Morona ’17 wrote, “The atmosphere was warm and supportive, despite the cold and wet weather. [Darian’s] devotion to the team rallied most of us and we played the second half of the tournament with probably more intensity than the first. The teams we played were some of the best we have encountered so far. I believe that as a team we were able to learn a lot from our mistakes and successes.”

Aditya Krishnamachar ’17 said, “After [Darian came back], he and James were as consistent as always, playing a majority of the points throughout the following games.”

The meet ended with a strenuous match against Masconomet. Although the score ended in a 13-7 loss, returner Reuben Philip ’18 played exceptionally well.

Wolfe said, “Reuben was a bright spot for us in the match against Masco. We were struggling offensively, but his passing and hustle really opened up lanes for us and allowed for a couple of Andover scores.”

“This Sunday was an exercise in endurance, considering we ended up playing four games throughout the day. I think one of the most important things that helped our on-field players was an active sideline that would help out by shouting out which way the force was, helping people on defense, and generally providing encouragement,” said Krishnamachar.

Andover looks to display the same level of spirit and focus in the four-team round robin this coming Saturday.

Editor’s Note: James Wolfe is a Photography Editor for The Phillipian.