The varsity field hockey team is viewing this year as a “rebuild” season after the departure of many senior players last school year.

             “This season definitely looks very different compared to others because things have changed, and we are trying new things,” said junior player Maya Akram.       

              Although plays and formations are changing within the program this year, varsity coach of seventeen seasons, Meredith Williamson, has continued pushing the team through practices and games. 

             “We had to make a completely new forward line and that has been very helpful for us,” said Williamson, “The girls are able to work hard together consistently and get to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, which ultimately helps us in games.” 

             Senior Nyah Straley, who has been a part of the program for the last three years, has taken on the role of captain this season and uses her knowledge on the sport to lead the field during games and to communicate with her teammates.        

             “Being captain is a thrilling position and it’s been very exciting being able to win more games this season,” said Straley. “I am happy that our efforts are able to be shown on the field during games.”

             This year, the team consists of 12 juniors, many of whom plan on returning next season. This year allows for the junior players to gain skills and tweak their technique before entering their senior seasons.

             “I am hopeful that when moving into next season we will be able to work on skills beyond basics, such as lifting the ball, specific corner plays, and doubling the ball on defense.” said Williamson. 

             As for this season, the team finished with a record of six and 12, winning two more games than the previous year and almost making it to regionals, but falling short by 0.4 points. 

             “It was disappointing for us because we were so close this year and we worked really hard, but I am hopeful that it will give us the motivation that we need to ensure making it to regionals and possibly even further next season.” said Akram.

To end the season, Coach Meredith Williamson was named 2024 All Jefferson District Field Hockey Class ⅘ Coach of the year, alongside honorable mention players: Maya Akram, Lauren Goodman, Karleigh Lundy, Taylor Waddy and Jefferson District Field Hockey and 2nd Team, senior Nyah Straley and Laurelei Choi.