Field Hockey Falls 3-1 While Honoring Seniors

BY CARA MCNEIL

SC Staff Writer

 

“Bittersweet” was the word seniors Brielle Kessel and Rebecca Smith had for their last game on home turf Wednesday, October 23, 2013, as they fell to No. 2-ranked Millersville 3-1.

The field hockey team honored three seniors, Kaitlin Blum, Brielle Kessel, and Rebecca Smith, at the start of competition as fans packed the bleachers and proud parents of the seniors escorted the girls on the field.

Blum, a redshirt senior member of field hockey team and ESU softball team, made her first start of the year at Wednesday’s game, and has two goals on the season against West Chester and Stonehill.

“Blum is a super young lady. We made the decision to start her today because we left like she really deserved it, and it ended really well for us,” said Field Hockey Head Coach Sandy Miller.

Smith, who is a team captain and two-year starter for the Warriors, made her 30th career start at back on Wednesday.

Smith is also a member of the softball team where she received Capital One Academic All-America 3rd team selection, and All-PSAC East selection as a junior in 2013.

“She’s a competitor, and she’s tough. We love having her on the team. She’s a great leader,” said Coach Miller.

Kessel, also captain, made her 50th career start at center midfield for the Warriors and had her 10th career assist against Millersville.

She was named to the Second Team All-PSAC East for the 2012 season.

“I really think she is our most consistent player this year. I think you’re only as strong as your leaders, and they are doing a great job,” said Coach Miller.

Sophomore Ally Roth scored the Warriors’ only goal—assisted by Kessel.

She leads the PSAC conference with 18 season goals. Champayne Hess, Olivia Hershey, and Lauren Gerhart all scored in the second half for Millersville.

The Warriors have three games on the road at IUP, Shippensburg, and Kutztown to finish out their 2013 season.

“PSAC Championship,” is what Kessel wishes for the team as the three seniors start their next chapter.

“We just want them to build upon what we have left for them,” said Smith.

 

Email Cara at: 

cmcneil@live.esu.edu