State Rep. Dave Yaccarino and state Sen. Paul Cicarella welcomed the state champion North Haven High School football and hockey teams to the capitol in May.

North Haven’s championship teams were introduced on the floor of the Connecticut Senate and House of Representatives to thunderous applause from legislators, staff and guests in attendance. "Congratulations to the football and hockey teams on making history as state champions and for all of the hard work that led to your incredible accomplishments on and off the athletic fields," Yaccarino said. "Through your achievements, you witnessed the value of teamwork and collaboration, and how they are pillars to building successful teams and strong relationships. We are so proud of how you have represented our town.”

Yaccarino continued, “Every player, coach, parent and supporter should celebrate these state champions." 

On Dec. 10, 2022, the North Haven High School football team defeated Killingly 51-34 in the CIAC Class MM title game at Rentschler Field in East Hartford to claim the program’s first-ever state championship. 

Not long after, on March 20, the North Haven High School hockey team bested Woodstock Academy 2-1 in overtime at M&T Bank Arena at Quinnipiac University in Hamden to earn its third CIAC Division II state championship.

“North Haven’s football and ice hockey teams have made us all proud from their remarkable runs to state titles,” Cicarella said. “Congratulations to the student-athletes, coaches, administrators and the families for this achievement. You cannot take shortcuts to become a state champion. Our teams embody the hard work that goes into becoming the best in any pursuit. I’m glad that we had the chance to welcome the teams to the capitol to highlight their tremendous accomplishments.”   

Following their introductions before the General Assembly, the state champs made their way out to the north steps, where they were met by Governor Ned Lamont, who congratulated the teams.