PENNSBURY FIELD HOCKEY PREVIEW
This season Pennsbury Field Hockey head coach, Traci Curtis enters her sixth year since taking over the program back in 2019. Curtis and Company have been building and growing from the inside out, founded on a philosophy of encouraging female athletes to come out on the other side the best version of themselves on and off the field, while simultaneously growing in the sport. They have yet to make it into the playoffs but consider the progress made as people and players over five years to be a huge victory. The purposeful work on culture is what is going to make the difference in the long run and have a lasting impact.
The Falcons 2024 theme is THE POWER OF ONE, chosen carefully as they look to focus on what it means to truly function as one unit, sacrificing self for the greater good and falling into a synchronized rhythm on the field. The theme includes the connection of the coaching staff who have all returned to continue to bring out the best in everyone. Lori Riley is the assistant varsity coach, while Lauren Gerth heads the JV team. Michelle Siegle will use her talents to focus on guiding and coaching the goalies. In addition, coaches Vanessa Fry and Vanessa Stack will work together at the JV-B level to build Pennsbury’s program and continue to develop future players.
With the loss of some key defenders (Gabby Darling, Kaylin Flannery, and Riley Henderson) PHS will look to many returners and some new faces to protect their goalie, Abby McCole. Offensively, the Falcons will feel the loss of Mia Popovich, but the returning attackers and midfielders are a strong force, bringing speed and smarts to the offense. The key is to find which combinations work best. The talent is exciting as the Falcon Field Hockey family works to help all players reach their potential and build confidence that serves as catalysts for success for all.
Honestly, every player is a player to watch. They all have something to add and have been working very hard this summer to improve. Everyone’s role is important - the unit working together is stronger than any individual just as our season theme points out.
It is always difficult to make predictions about the season and schedule with the constant ebb and flow of programs in the SOL. The goal we have as a program is to stay true to who we are and remember our purpose and vision. We look to compete and gain respect and prove to ourselves that we are worthy of winning against anyone. Building the players’ confidence is vital as we strive to believe in ourselves every step of the way. Our staff is committed to pulling everything we can from all players across the board. Each season is a fresh start and a chance to once again create something awesome together.
We look forward to what lies ahead and wish all teams the best as we move into the 2024 field hockey season.
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