Rugby Wing Scores Prom Date

Britta Marden wasn't the only person at Belmont High School's Harris Field Thursday afternoon looking to score.

In fact, Marden – a three-sport standout known for a steely resolve on the pitch – had done her part, turning in a hat trick for the Girls' Lacrosse team as they powered by Lexington under threatening skies.

Now it was Ben Pejko's turn.

The senior wing on the current state champion club rugby team was up in the stands waiting for the game to conclude before making his move.

And as the girls were coming off the field after the final horn, Pejko unfolded a poster board plea over the railing of the stands:

"Britta, Prom?"

It was Marden's teammates who first saw the request and began squealing in unison with surprise and delight. Then Marden saw Pejko's romantic bid and immediately turned bright red as she quickly accepted Pejko's late bid – the prom is a mere three weeks away – to escort her to the Westin Copley Place on May 18.

"Oh, that is so awesome," screamed one of Marden's teammates as another shouted out "You better not say no!"

Pejko admitted that he wanted to ask her earlier but decided his handwritten appeal would do.

When asked if she expected Pejko's invitation, Marden could only hold her hand to her month and laugh.