Field hockey team optimistic about upcoming season

Coach: Lifon Huynh, entering second season as head coach

2011 record: 4-4-4

2011 recap:  The team started off the season a little slow, but picked up the pace to beat some of its top opponents such as Saint Francis and Los Gatos, each by the score of  1-0.  The girls made it to CCS but were defeated in the second round.

Star Players: Seniors forward Megan Doles and midfielders Amanda Schwartz and Jenni Miller

Departures: Forward Anna Ashe and goalie Abby Williams

Key Additions: Junior forwards Risha Shah, Monica Saripella, and Sana Ali; Junior defender Melissa Szenda; Junior goalie Lena Jewler

Important Games: Oct. 4 at home vs. Los Gatos; Nov. 1 at home vs. Gilroy

 

The Falcons have tough games ahead of them, but head coach Lifon Huynh believes the girls have what it takes to accomplish their goals for the season.

“The keys are working together as a team on the field and moving the ball while maintaining possession,” Huynh said.  “Trusting one another's abilities on the field will be the key to any success on the pitch.”

Huynh said there are still some areas that the players can improve in.

“[Their] weaknesses are mental toughness when mistakes are made and not playing as hard or consistently as they are capable of doing at practice [to help] prepare for those big season games,” Huynh said. “[But] there is still plenty of time to grow throughout the next couple of weeks.” 

Huynh said she sees potential for the players on this year’s team.

“I hope the team will work hard and still want to make it to the finals throughout the season, not just through their words but also [in their] actions during practice play,” she said.