With a score of 6-1, varsity field hockey wrapped up its season with an exhilarating win against School of the Holy Child. Wearing tiaras and holding the posters filled with teammates’ wishes, senior players celebrated their last match in laughter and cheers. Among them were ca ptains Willow Lovett and Chloe MacKay, and players Liza Melnikova and Tatum Wallach.
An avid hockey player since eighth grade, Lovett is one of the team’s most reliable defenders on the field. Chosen as captain for her experience, Lovett strengthened her leadership skills in this role. She said, “I became more comfortable being vocal on the field…It [the role as captain] also taught me how to navigate team dynamics.”
Another captain and a midfielder, MacKay contributed three assists in the senior game. Together with Lovett, MacKay helped the team adjust to fill the gaps left by graduating players from last year. “This season has been a lot about growth and starting somewhat from scratch,” MacKay said.
MacKay mentors younger teammates and encourages them to overcome obstacles. She shared, “Motivating teammates without being overbearing is key… ensure they feel prepared and welcomed here.”
Under the leadership of Lovett and MacKay, the team developed a supportive and tight-knit environment. MacKay said, “We say ‘Hi’ in the hallways, connecting with freshmen, sophomores, and juniors and maintaining relationships on and off the field.”
First-year player Melnikova said the environment is her favorite aspect of the team. “On the bus, everyone is laughing and talking, freshmen and seniors together…It’s loud and chaotic, but so fun,” Melnikova said.
Contrary to her offense role in lacrosse, Melnikova assumes a new position in defense, a transition that turns out to be unexpectedly rewarding. She said, “I didn’t expect to stop so many balls as a defender, especially when I barely knew the rules… The game made me realize I might actually be good at this.”
Developed a strong passion during this tight window, Melnikova is eager to join a field hockey club in college.
“I’m proud of the risks I’ve taken,” Wallach said. Like Melnikova, she embraced personal growth through stepping outside her comfort zone. Having played both offense and defense previously, Wallach tried goalie for the first time this season. “I played half of the [senior] game on defense and half of the game as goalie… I made two solid saves,” she said. “I wish I’d tried it sooner.”
