A triple-header of lacrosse action at Blue & Gold Stadium on May 14 was about much more than players hitting the back of the net and the final scores.

The Newtown High School lacrosse teams played in honor of those who have been affected by pediatric cancer with the girls’ varsity and boys’ junior varsity and varsity squads all in action while fundraising efforts took place in the stands. The Nighthawks sold concessions and collected donations with all funds for The Mary Ruchalski Foundation’s Play 4 Mary Campaign in honor of Mary Socci, who lost her battle with pediatric cancer in November 2020. The Nighthawks will make a $1,300 donation in honor of Socci.

A member of the family, Jen Socci, plays for the Nighthawks. A freshman, she got into the game for some playing time when the Nighthawks defeated Glastonbury 17-8.

“We were here for a greater good,” said Maura Fletcher, coach of the NHS girls. “They came in loose and excited.”

After the win, the postgame huddle that often ends with a “Nighthawks” chant wrapped up with the players yelling “family” in a show of support for their teammate.

Mary Socci was an all-around athlete, excelling in lacrosse, softball, swimming, basketball, and soccer. The Play 4 Mary Campaign was formed to raise awareness for pediatric cancer and empower youth athletes and allow them to play with a purpose. The Play 4 Mary Campaign raises funds to help support families who have a child undergoing treatment.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.