The Bolts are breaking out.

After a tough one-win season in 2023, East has already tripled that total as its sits at 3-1-2 and in fourth place in Division III.

East most recently faced fellow DIII playoff contender Burrillville last week and the Broncos would score with less than a minute remaining to force the draw. Although East just missed getting the win, earning a point against the Broncos is just another feather in the cap for this emerging group as the Broncos remained undefeated with the draw.

The Bolts have seen production from all over the lineup and got three goals from three different players in Burrillville. Madisen Gallo, Ava Chiarello and Tia Sanzaro all scored for the Bolts while keeper Isabella Dupret finished with six saves in net.

The offense has surged at times throughout the season, getting six goals against Johnston then eight against Davies. The team’s defense has also excelled, only allowing two multi-goal games including the tie against Burrillville.

“They’re playing together as a team and are winning by having fun. They’re losing games by making mistakes that cost us and that’s what happened in the ties. They’re having fun and they trust one another, and to see the new girls scoring, that’s big,” said East coach John Souza. “It builds their confidence and the morale of the team. A couple of the JV’s have done well and are holding their own.”

The team also boasts experience, with senior captains like Madeline Flinn, Sanzaro and Dupret in the mix. East has seven seniors overall with another five juniors as well.

Souza believes that the team’s chemistry and depth across the board will propel it to the playoffs and into championship contention.

“This team is not solid as individuals, it’s solid as a team. It’s the training and having them understand the plays, staying on top of it. We just have to keep driving, that’s what I’ve been telling them. Keep doing what you’re doing and have fun and we’ll win these games,” said Souza. “These teams we’re facing are good, but they’re not teams that we can’t handle. Our players are good and they mesh well.”

The Bolts took on Classical (4-1) in another pivotal battle on Tuesday, but the results were not available at press time.