Bayport-Blue Point field hockey falls to 5-time defending state champ Whitney Point in state semifinals
Lily LiPuma, left, of Bayport-Blue Point and Payton Martin of Whitney Point battle for possession during a state Class C field hockey semifinal on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, in Lagrangeville. Credit: George Caratzas
The Bayport-Blue Point field hockey team’s season came to an end on Saturday.
The Phantoms fell to Whitney Point, winners of five straight state championships, 7-0, in the state Class C semifinals at Arlington High School.
Coach Karen Gick said despite the finish, reaching a state semifinal for the second straight year is an accomplishment in itself.
“It’s definitely not the way we wanted it to end, but I’m so proud of this team for even getting to this point,” Gick said. “Especially two years in a row. It’s an opportunity not everyone gets to experience. They are a great group of girls and athletes, and we truly just enjoy being together, laughing and playing field hockey.”
Bayport-Blue Point finished 15-4.
The Phantoms earned two one-goal wins in the Suffolk and Long Island championships to earn a spot in the state semifinals. Gick said that grit has become a core part of her team’s identity this season.
“Our joke this year was to embrace the chaos,” Gick said. “I mean chaos in a good and fun way. When you look at the sideline of other teams, they always have their sticks lined up and neat. Then there’s us, sticks scattered everywhere, but when it matters on the field, they rein it in and come together. We’re really proud of how they find a way to always step up to the challenge and work together.”
Whitney Point (18-1-1) got off to a quick start, scoring twice in the opening minutes. The powerhouse team was difficult to stop, but goalkeeper Victoria Madden made six saves for Bayport-Blue Point. Madeline Clark earned all-tournament honors for the second straight year and Olivia Farrell earned the all-state sportsmanship award.
Gick said regardless of the finish, she hopes the lessons it creates will carry into next season.
“I hope the players can take away the fact that when you can enjoy playing the game, support one another and work together," Gick said, "good things will come.”
Tess Ferguson is a reporter on Newsday's high school sports staff. She joined the team after graduating with a journalism degree from Ithaca College in 2025.
