Ridgefield, CT – November 2, 2024 – In an epic double overtime showdown, the Soccer Club of Ridgefield (SCOR) U14/15 Boys team emerged victorious, capturing the 2024 Connecticut Soccer State Cup in a breathtaking 2-1 victory over Madison. This unforgettable win caps a flawless season in which Ridgefield remained undefeated through 15 matches across league play, tournaments, and now, the Connecticut State Cup, achieving what no Ridgefield team has before.
The stakes could not have been higher as the boys faced two-time champions Farmington in the semifinal, a match that came down to the wire in a heart-stopping 4-3 finish. That triumph set up a high-drama final against Madison, where Ridgefield struck early with a beautifully executed goal by Logan Seagrist off a perfectly timed through-ball from Lucas “The Controller” Doucet. Madison clawed their way back with a late equalizer, a high shot caught by an unpredictable gust that seemed to test the very fabric of Ridgefield’s resolve. As the clock ticked into the 90th minute, after having received a beautifully placed ball down the side from Fisher, it was Seagrist again who delivered an electrifying final blow, weaving through defenders to score from a seemingly impossible angle and seal Ridgefield’s historic victory.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Head Coach Ruggero De Rossi captured the depth of their achievement: “Ridgefield’s offensive line has been nothing short of phenomenal, scoring an average of four goals per game. Logan Seagrist and Kieran ‘The Finisher’ McLaughlin led the charge, supported by Ethan ‘Upper 90’ Gilland, Connor Stephenson’s quick feet, and Mason ‘Zico’ Fisher, whose resilience and determination to play after a recent bone fracture added an emotional edge to Ridgefield’s campaign. Every player was all-in, every moment, leaving absolutely everything on the field.”
Coach Ruggero described the final as “a challenge of two completely different soccer styles. Ridgefield focused on possession and technical skill, while Madison relied on physicality, pressing, and quick counterattacks. Yet our boys matched them in every tackle and every 50/50, unwavering, giving everything. It was a battle of wills, and we prevailed.”
Anchoring Ridgefield’s defense, known proudly as “The Wall,” was central back Olan Turner, supported by defensive powerhouses Elliott Lee, Gavin Zeck, Holden Seff, and Bryce Grenert. Together, they formed an unbreakable shield, countering Madison’s relentless advances with speed, precision, and unshakeable grit. Goalkeeper Sam “Spiderman” Goodwin proved a fortress in his own right, catching every attempt with unwavering confidence, while wingbacks Brendan “The MTA Train” Carboni and George “Van Basten” Robertson provided tireless support to both the defensive line and attacking plays, seamlessly weaving up and down the pitch.
In the heart of the field, captain Lucas Doucet, hailed by his teammates as “The Controller,” orchestrated Ridgefield’s offense with a field vision rivaling Italy’s legendary Andrea Pirlo. Doucet’s combination play with midfield maestros Zach Mathias (the CT version of Luka Modric), Kayra Bilal’s dribbling prowess, and Mason “Gattuso” Palmiero’s unrelenting defense was a masterclass in control, breaking down Madison’s press and feeding Ridgefield’s insatiable offense with seamless precision.
The unstoppable Ridgefield offensive line has been an emblem of power and resilience this season. As Coach Ruggero noted, “This team was built to attack, built to score. And that’s exactly what they did, game after game.” Logan Seagrist and Kieran McLaughlin’s ferocious drive for goals was complemented by Ethan Gilland’s pinpoint accuracy, Connor Stephenson’s quick-footed finesse, and Mason “Zico” Fisher’s unmatched grit and recovery from injury—each player contributing to the team’s remarkable four-goal average that struck fear into every opponent they faced.
Under the leadership of Italian-born Coach Ruggero De Rossi and Parent Assistant Coach Tony Carboni, Ridgefield’s disciplined training, tactical rigor, and philosophy of controlled, possession-based play were honed throughout the season. Inspired by Italian coaching legends Ancelotti and Conte, Coach De Rossi instilled a philosophy that prioritized technical mastery and teamwork over everything else—a formula that helped forged these players into champions.
The Ridgefield U14/15 Boys are now bound for Regionals, an achievement that resonates deeply within the community. As they savor the hard-won title of 2024 Connecticut State Champions, Ridgefield stands behind them, ready to see what this unstoppable team accomplishes next.
For now, Ridgefield is proud to call itself home to the 2024 Connecticut U14/15 State Champions!