Field hockey sticks together

JACK SHIELDS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SCOTT SHIELDS REPORTER

Considering that McLean’s field hockey team didn’t even know if they would get a season during the 2020-21 school year, the past couple of months have been a dream come true for players and coaches.

In a shortened and heavily modified season, the team won three games, but it was the memories the players made along the way that made this season so enjoyable.

This year was especially important for the team’s 10 seniors to get one last season together and a chance to lead the team.

“We have this program called ‘Senior Mamas’ where each senior would lead a group of juniors and underclassmen as a ‘family,’ and we would compete against each other in mini games and races,” senior LanAnh Dang-Vu said.

One of the standout moments from this season was the team’s 1-0 win over thenundefeated Yorktown midway through the season with a goal scored by senior Kylie Keysor.

“I remember just talking to them before the game and knowing that we were about to face a great team. I remember just telling them to control what they can control. Just play the game under control, don’t let them get in your head,” coach Lizzie McManus said. “I think I’ve never witnessed so many student athletes connecting at once. I really kind of sat and witnessed it.”

Still, the circumstances of this year and some of the team’s dynamics presented unique challenges throughout the season besides the COVID-19 protocols hindering every sports team.

“We do have a big team, and I know that we’re all going through some various struggles. I know some student-athletes are fighting for minutes on the field,” McManus said. “So I think it has been a test of mental strength for a lot of these girls, and I think that’s been a challenge but also a rewarding one.”

McManus was impressed to see how the players overcame these challenges and came together as a team.

“I think they’re developing really well skills-wise, they’ve adapted to the changes, and it’s moved fast,” McManus said. “This season is so condensed, so they’ve been super flexible with time changes, rained out games, wins, losses, the bigger team and working with the program.”

In the end, it was a memorable season for the field hockey team, who made their coach and the McLean fan base proud this year.

“I hope that everybody walks away from the season having given everything they could and also having learned more about themselves and how to work with a team,” McManus said.

SMOOTH STICK-HANDLING — Sophomore Olivia Tennant dribbles past Herndon defenders in a March 5 game. The Highlanders lost 1-0 to the Hornets.

SUPER SENIORS — McFockey’s seniors celebrate their senior night on March 9 before their game against South Lakes. The Highlanders won the game 2-0 with goals by seniors Megan Williamson and Kylie Keysor.