Waterford boys win ECC lacrosse title with dramatic double OT victory

Montville — Thursday's Eastern Connecticut Conference boys' lacrosse tournament championship game had more twists and turns than a rollercoaster ride.

When the wild ride finally ended, second-seeded Waterford captured its first ECC title since 2019, outlasting No. 4 Stonington 6-5 in dramatic fashion.

“It's another huge win,'' said Waterford coach Paul Deon. “It's only the second ECC title at Waterford. I'm thrilled for the guys. It's nice to see them so elated.”

Senior John Zimmermann fired home the game-winning goal with two minutes, 40 seconds left in the second overtime.

“That's one of the happiest moments

Waterford 6 Stonington 5

in my life,'' said Zimmermann. “I can't describe the feeling that just came over me after that goal.”

Waterford (15-3) appeared to be in control, seizing a 5-1 lead by halftime.

But the Bears (10-8) staged a frantic comeback, scoring four straight goals, including Ben Massengale's score with one minute, 40 seconds left in regulation that forced overtime.

Neither team could produce the winning goal in the first overtime, with both goalies making terrific saves.

Zimmermann delivered the game's biggest blow.

“It's always a thriller. I've played in other close games in my life. There's nothing like a championship,'' said Waterford goalie Jake Kozlowski. “I just tried to do my best for the guys on the team. I know they have my back and I've got to have their back.”

Stonington won the regular-season meeting, 9-7, on April 14.

Since then, both teams have improved significantly.

Waterford entered Thursday's action riding a six-game winning streak while Stonington carried momentum from upsetting top-seeded East Lyme, the defending champion, in overtime in the ECC semifinals.

Early on, the Lancers had the edge.