The gym is alive when I enter.
That’s the first thing that comes to my mind; the way girls fill the arena as if it’s their home. It’s so natural how the team sets up as soon as they enter, a routine that shows how dedicated and real their unity is. A light chatter breaks out while they warm up; every girl is friendly, nobody is out of place. Even the grade 9s are comfortable; amazing when you realize these girls have been here for all of two months.
I greet Samantha, the grade 10 captain of the team. She already has her stick in hand, ready to play as soon as we finish talking. Her enthusiasm is infectious; you can tell she’s happy to be here.
“I just really love the sport, the team, everything,” she explains. Apparently, her first time learning about the sport was in grade 9! When she heard about tryouts, Samantha was told that you didn’t have to know the game to be on the team. They were looking for freshmen girls willing to commit and unafraid of the ball. Samantha was both of those things, and eager to learn a new skill. Looking back, she is glad that she made the decision to join. The former captains were very encouraging, and she was inspired to carry on their legacy. Her teammates support her in what she does, and she loves the family they’ve created.
Kayla, the grade 12 captain, is just as great. She comes in carrying so many things and you can tell she’s balancing a lot, physically and metaphorically. Still, she agrees to talk to me for a minute. She has been on the team since grade 9 and really enjoys the sport. Kayla’s decision to become a captain came from how much she “wanted an inclusive, positive environment”. Since her first year, she has had a wonderful time in field hockey. She wants to give every girl who joins the team a similar experience. Judging by the amazing energy the team radiated, it’s safe to say she accomplished it.
Of course, the group would not be where they are if not for the wonderful coaches. Both Kayla and Samantha have nothing but good to say about Coach Melissa and Coach McFadden. “They’re very dedicated and very understanding,” Kayla tells me. Ms. McFadden is very helpful and encouraging. Coach Melissa is kind and “straight to the point”, as Samantha describes. Samantha also cites Coach Melissa as one of the reasons she got into field hockey.
Their advice for girls considering field hockey is similar and important. “Just try out and don’t give up,” Samantha says. “You’re not going to get it right away, so make mistakes.”
“At first it’s not going to be as easy as you wished,” Kayla admits. “But have a positive perspective.” They both stress the importance of persevering. Everyone is supportive of each other; there is no initiation nor discouragement.
The field hockey team has two wonderful captains, and hopefully, they will inspire others to take their leadership positions one day. Be sure to congratulate the team members on their great season thus far!
By: Chloe William
Titan Times 