This could be the year;

      Having come close to the ultimate goal in previous seasons, the field hockey team is ready to claim their first state title this season.

      Led by Coach Carla Harward and three senior captains, the girls plan to go far in the playoffs.

      Harward wants the girls to “work as a team” and “improve every game.”

      The team is relying on the experience and leadership of captains Rachel Baca, Juliet Dolinar, and Bailey Saneman as well as all returning members.

      “They [the captains] bring the team together and push us to do better and cheer us on,” said sophomore Sarah Jackson.

      Harward has the state title on her mind, but knows there is a big obstacle in the regular season; C. Milton Wright High School. The game will take place on October 3.

      “Basically, their [CMW] whole team is returning while we are a totally different team, but will be competitive,” said Harward.

      The team lost most of their starters to graduation after last season, but most of this year’s seniors have been on varsity since their sophomore year.

      “I expect the team to work together and drop the egos to have a winning season,” said Dolinar.

     Other than the captains, Harward is sure the experience of Ellie Berrell, Sophie Crowther, Jackson, and Gabby Karr will help the team in their journey to the state championship.

     As long as the girls peak around tournament time, there is no stopping their teamwork, commitment to the sport, and skills that have gained them ground in the past.