Sixteen out of 118 or 13.6 percent. These numbers represent the freshmen who tried out and made the field hockey team this season. And these sixteen girls from this large freshman class have taken an interest in a sport completely foreign to them.

“It has been hard learning to play a new sport,” freshman Jordan Hermes said. “But it is not as stressful with so many other freshmen on the team.”

Strength in numbers may be true for the freshmen, but there are only two seniors on the team to lead them this season. Senior Maggie McLiney said that it has been a challenge to teach so many new players in so little time. Although the large group of freshmen may be hard to handle right now, McLiney knows it will pay off in the long run.

Head coach Gwyn Savage also believes that the freshmen have potential to enhance the team. Savage said that some of them are good athletes and will definitely see varsity playing time.

“It is reassuring that so many girls tried out this year,” McLiney said. “Now I know that when I graduate the sport will continue to grow and will be in the capable hands of many upperclassmen.”

The confidence that McLiney has instilled in the freshmen has created a bond throughout the team that freshman Carolyn Crowe cherishes. Crowe said that she has created many friendships through field hockey, and some with the upperclassmen.

“I have met so many people through field hockey,” Crowe said. “Getting to know all of the upperclassmen has been really helpful and fun.”

And Crowe is not the only freshman who feels the same. Freshman Maddie Kahl is not only looking forward to getting in shape this season, but also staying involved within the team.

“My favorite part of field hockey has been making new friends,” Kahl said. “I am most looking forward to going to team dinners and bonding with the team.”