On their way to a match against Choate on May 13, Girls Varsity Golf was involved in a car accident. A driver struck a midbus carrying students from Frederick Gunn School, which then lost control and hit a Hotchkiss Suburban on the left side.

Three of the six golfers in the car were sent to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in Torrington, CT after reporting minor pain. The remaining three students and Head Coach Doug Kneeland ’98 reported feeling no effects; they returned to campus and were checked at the Health Center.

None of the students or faculty from either school sustained major injuries. The driver of the third vehicle, who the responding officers determined was at fault for the incident, was cited for erratic driving.

After witnessing the first collision, Coach Kneeland quickly swerved out of the way, which significantly decreased the impact of the second crash. “It was a very scary situation, and I’m so glad that everyone was able to walk away from the crashes. I’m so proud of how my players reacted and how they tended to each other, and I send my thoughts and best wishes to all involved, particularly the students,” he said.

At 6:11 p.m., Mr. Craig Bradley, head of school, sent a community-wide email sharing details about the accident. He wrote, “The safety of every member of this community is of paramount importance. I am deeply grateful to Coach Kneeland for capable and responsive driving that may have mitigated a more serious outcome.”

Captain Kristen Pariseau ’23 said, “I’m so thankful that the quick reaction by Coach Kneeland led to the best possible outcome. The team and I are extremely grateful. Thank you, Mr. Kneeland.”