Woodbridge Field hockey works to stay competitive as a growing team. Head Coach K. Van Bruggen says the team is “Young but has a good attitude.” Last year the team graduated 11 seniors–an entire starting lineup. That large graduating class left six Varsity returners to inherit the team. One returner being the Junior Goalkeeper Emma Conigliaro-Huante.
Even after losses they push each other to keep going. Forward Sophie Robinson says the team is “good at motivating each other.” After getting scored on they often tap sticks and pat each other on the back. The team participated in weekly out of season conditioning to improve team cohesion. Seeing each other weekly “built bonds.” Players JV and Varsity alike are a family. “I love our team,” said Senior Edna Dibella.
Scoring is a challenge for the team. Although midfielder Segolene Nguyen says that the team is self-aware and that they “know what to work on.” A note she has for herself is to be “a better team player.”
Colgan is the team’s biggest district competition. “Colgan is really dedicated” says Forward Fee Flynn. Woodbridge seems to be at a disadvantage due to inexperience and lack of intensity. “Our team’s most experienced players only have 3 years under their belts,” added Robinson. Although team leaders say that players are good at motivating each other. “It’s the Woodbridge pride” she added.
Coach V. has lots to say about the team captains Sophie Robinson, Emma Conigliaro- Huante, and Lilly Tafe. “They’re Dependable” she says, the three captains occupy the Defense, Midfield, and Offensive sides of the field. Goalie Conigliaro-Huante has been working hard to improve this off season. She made 1st Team All-District last season as a sophomore and is striving for the all-region goalie title this year.
Although the team is in a growing stage they are “like a family” and will “be the ones to watch” next season, say the coaches and captains.
