Simmons Field Hockey will embark on the 2009 season with many new and old faces, ready to face the North Atlantic Conference competition. The Sharks finished the 2008 season with a 5-13 overall record, recording multiple one-goal losses on close calls throughout the fall. Head Coach Kate Leonard and the Sharks will look to turn those tight games into wins this season.
The 2008 team was young and inexperienced, but many will return as healthier, more seasoned athletes this time around. Sophomore Lee Sutherland (Tuftonboro, N.H.) quickly became an offensive threat for Simmons in 2008, and Coach Leonard will look to her again for her hustle and spark around the goal. Senior captain Emily Sypher (Orono, Maine) stepped into a strong, calm leadership position at forward last fall, and will continue to carry her presence on the field. Katelyn Tighe (Easton, Mass.) joined the Field Hockey squad for the spring 2009 off-season and made a big impact in the midfield; the Sharks will use her vision and strong skills on transition and recovery. Senior Maggie Weeks (Melvin Village, N.H.) enters her second season as captain; her positive energy and quick recovery are necessary for the Simmons defensive game and overall mindset.
Simmons lost only one senior, Katie Bonney, to graduation after the 2008 season. While not a great loss in number of athletes, Bonney led the team in scoring with 8 goals in 2008. "As our leading scorer and a very aggressive, passionate player she will be sorely missed," said Coach Leonard.
Coach Leonard expects freshmen Marianna Brown (Newton, N.H.) and Brigid Rushe (Belmont, Mass.) to bring great energy to the Sharks' forward line, and "we hope to see them getting in on the scoring action, taking over where Bonney left off." Freshman Cayla Morris (Oak Bluffs, Mass.) is an aggressive, smart midfielder who will see some playing time as well.
"We play a similar game schedule as last year, so we are out for revenge on last year's losses," said Coach Leonard. "In order to do this, we need to have a more powerful offense, so we are working toward scoring more goals and capitalizing on more scoring opportunities. We want to qualify for the NAC tournament somewhere in the top seeds. Every NAC game is a good challenge, so it will take determination and smart play."
The Sharks will open the season at home on Tuesday, September 1 at 7:00 PM when they face Babson College.