On Saturday, September 17th, the Kent girls varsity field hockey team played its first official game of the season against Sacred Heart, losing by a single point with a final score of 1-2. Despite the narrow loss, the girls remain optimistic about their potential for the rest of the season.

During the game, the girls put to play new skills they had developed in preseason and had a strong showing. Captain Juju Tardif ’17 praised the team’s improvement throughout the game. “Even though Sacred Heart came out on top, our passing got smoother as the game progressed, and we even started using aerials, which is a great asset,” she said.  

Although Sacred Heart scored both of its goals before Kent, captain and goalie Anne-Sophie Rioux ’17 saved several initial shots on the defensive line. Throughout the game, the Kent girls tried new skills and worked hard to defend their goal and score. They were down four players who were away at an ice hockey tournament in Canada, but the team came together to fill in the gaps.

According to goalie Sevie Browne ’19, the team dynamic is remarkable. “I’ve been on the team since freshman year and ever since day one I’ve felt so welcome. The community is great and everyone is so talented and I know a great season is in store,” said Browne.

The girls have shown strong teamwork on the field, and though it’s early in the season, the captains can already see what the team has in store. “I am so proud of the team and I believe that we have the potential to be really successful,” said Rioux.

Of course, to make success a reality, the girls must give their best. “I believe that every game is as important. Whatever team we play, we always have to give out 110% because that is how we will get better,” Rioux commented.

The team is now training hard for its next game against Gunnery, which takes place on Wednesday, September 21st.