Looking Back at Senior Girls Field Hockey

June 11, 2021

Academics

GNS

I would like to thank all of the members of the Senior School who took part in field hockey last fall. Although it was not the season we had hoped for, it was definitely my most memorable for a few reasons and I believe we have a lot to celebrate!

First, the reason why this write-up is so late, was the exciting arrival of my daughter, Eva, with only one week left in the season. As each practice went by and I got closer and closer to my due date, field hockey training sessions were something I very much looked forward to. I don’t think I have ever been around such a large group of kind and supportive young women.

Even as I passed my due date and waddling around the field became a little bit harder, I could always count on this lovely group to cart around equipment, slide the nets into place, and set up/take down drills. This of course could not have been done without the amazing help of our awesome assistant coaches Cameron Hahn ’17 and Marissa Young ’18. Both alumni were members of the field hockey program at GNS for many years and their expertise, energy and flexibility were very much appreciated.

The next item I would like to celebrate is the fact that we had our biggest roster ever! The Grade 9 cohort was the biggest with 17 amazing and committed young athletes. The enthusiasm that this group brought to each training session was incredible and we even had enough players for a half field seven-a side game to close out the season. The students got to experience what it was like to wear the beautiful navy, white and green Senior School uniforms and were divided into lineups to duke it out for bragging rights.

A big shout out to Kate Flye ’24 and Sophie Davies ’24 who committed to being our goal keepers for the season. They each showed impressive athleticism and a great amount of improvement in a short amount of time.

Our Grade 10 cohort was a pleasant surprise for me this year as there were only a couple of athletes who had played in the previous year. This group was made up of 12 students who were new to the sport and they were a lot of fun. My favourite part about working with them was their positive attitudes. They were willing to work through the skills and drills and were always eager to jump into games which were filled with a lot of competition but also a lot of laughter. I would like to make a special shout out to newcomer Olivia Dunkley ’23. Her leadership was very much appreciated.

Last but not least, was our Grade 11/12 cohort made up of 12 dedicated and fantastic individuals. It was especially tough on this group to not have a “normal” season but they handled it very well and were amazing role models and leaders for our squad this season.

We were very lucky to be able to wrap up the season with a small-sided game where the Grade 12s got to wear their field hockey jerseys one last time and then receive their traditional rose as a thank you for their commitment to the team. These amazing Grade 12s are: Madi Davits, the agile and quick forward; Sarah Zarzour, one of our hardworking top goal scorers; Sophie Van Cuylenborg, another fast and athletic forward; Francesca Cumberbirch, our outstanding defender with a powerful sweep; Sophia Glatiotis, our dedicated and most versatile team player; Tara Golonka, the midfielder with incredible stamina who never gives up on the ball; and finally, Brooke Taylor. Brooke has been a starter and key contributor for us since her Grade 8 year. Since then she has gone on to compete for Team BC and the Next Gen (Jr. National) Squad. We wish her the best of luck as she tries out for the two-time defending national champs, Vikes Women’s Field Hockey team this summer!

Finally, we were very fortunate to receive a donation to the program this year which has allowed us to update our equipment and uniforms. This will be especially exciting as we step out on the pitch to take on the competition next fall. A big thank you to all of our donors, it really means a lot to our entire squad.

And to our athletes, thank you again for a wonderful season. I very much look forward to getting back on the pitch with you in the fall. Also, for any Senior School students who are interested in playing this summer, please check out the Summer FUN programs as we offer “Pre-Season Training” at the end of August.