NEW LONDON, CT. - Snapping an eight-game string of defeats, the Wesleyan women's ice hockey team rang in 2026 with a victory over in-state rival Connecticut College on Saturday afternoon, putting away a 3-2 final score as the team was led by freshman Parker Caldara with two goals and an assist from Connecticut's Dayton Arena.

The Cardinals (1-7-1 overall) took an early defensive approach in the first period, outshot by the Camels (5-2-2 overall) as Jenna Guglielmi '27 held off nine shots on goal. Both teams held scoreless throughout the opening period, entering the second period with a hunger to strike first.

With less than 10 minutes underway in the middle period, the Camels put away the opening goal of the game to take a short-lived lead thanks to Ashley Engle. Cruising past the midway point, Caldara tied the game up at one, scoring her first of the game. While the Camels won the faceoff, the Cardinals regained control and shuffled around the backside of the goal for Caldara at the far wall. Caldara circled to the point before firing from the near corner.

As the second period entered the final minute, Amelia Molin '27 gave the Cardinals the one-goal lead. Rushing the zone, Caldara fired first with Jillian Wexler making the save, sending the puck to the near wall. Molin fought for possession of the rebounded puck before landing the goal over Wexler's glove from the right post.

Caldara struck again in the final 20 minutes of action, giving the Cardinals an initial two-goal lead before Bridget McGann would score again for the Camels. Caldara's goal was shoved over the line after a centered pass from Caroline Humber '29 found her at the post.

Caldara led all offensive efforts with six shots on goal. Fellow freshman Lilly Place was good for 13 faceoff wins on the draw.

In goal, Guglielmi secured her first win of the season by making 17 saves. Opposite Guglielmi, Wexler finished with 23 saves.

The Cardinals return to action on Monday, Jan. 5, when they host Johnson & Wales at 3 p.m.