Written by Lillian Pereira

Here at Rye Country Day, there are many different sports one can play, but none have as much heart as the Varsity Field Hockey team. With a record of 6-1-1 thus far, this season has been particularly successful for the team. Many players attribute this success to the team’s kind energy. “I am so proud of how we treat each other and other teams,” says midfielder Evie Shurslep ‘25. Although some teams they faced might have yelled at each other, Shurslep notes how the field hockey team is “very positive and only encouraging of each other.” 

Indeed, a large part of the team’s success is due to the great environment created by head coach, Georgette Summers, and the assistant coaches Nicola Clarkson, Clemmie Everett, and Pam Farber. Under their leadership, in addition to the captains Dorel Dunkley ‘25, Julia Heintz ‘25, and Clare Keating ‘26, the players have won almost every game. In fact, most of these games end in a mercy, where the girls are told to not score after leading  5-0, and instead are encouraged to practice skills such as backward passing and doubling, a practice that demonstrates field hockey’s sportsmanship and commitment to constantly improving. 

Many players, both new and old, contribute to the team’s wins. While new players bring fresh skills onto the field from 8th grade, older players can use their expertise to help the whole team flourish, all while providing a welcoming environment. “Everyone is just having fun and playing during practice and games, as there is so much passion on the team,” Ailey Denson ‘28, one of the players, claims. Hopefully the Varsity Field Hockey team can keep up this attitude going into the playoffs in November. Go Rye!