THE 2021 MHS field hockey team, pictured front row from left: Riley Maguire, Rory Kirby, Anna Mackey, Meghan Maher, Caeleigh Corolla, Caitlin Price, Bridget Price. Top from left: coach Claire Grogan, Alex Zaino, Lindsay Teevan, Ava Viola, Megan Casey, Kalina Piasecki, Kaileigh Clark, Olivia Galusi and Layla Szymczak. Missing from photo Shannon Mackowski. (Raj Das www.edphotos.com)

 


Team graduates eleven seniors

By JENNIFER GENTILE

MELROSE—The Melrose High field hockey team’s season has ended after falling shy of playoff contention. Melrose (4-12-2) earned a quality 1-1 tie against Burlington on Oct. 25, but a 3-1 season finale loss to Wilmington on the road effectively ended their chance to be included in the field of 32 teams qualified to compete in Div. 2 playoffs.

As Melrose concluded their final games, one area of strength was their defense, who gave up just six goals in three games, including only two against Wakefield on October 21. “Our defenders certainly did their part in the last few games of the season despite the losses,” says first year coach Claire Grogan. While Melrose struggled to find the net in a few of their finals games, they did generate offense. “We had possession for the majority of the game against Burlington, Wakefield and Wilmington. We also had goals called back which was disappointing.”

Wakefield proved to be an evenly matched game. Melrose scored their lone goal courtesy of freshman Ava Viola on an assist from senior Kalina Piasecki. Against Wilmington, senior Bridget Price scored Melrose’s only goal, also on an assist by Piasecki. “In both games Bridget was a key player in our attack,” notes Grogan, who considered Price’s goal particularly impressive. “Our Wilmington goal was an absolutely beautiful team effort. We had been practicing our two touch hockey and circle positioning and that goal had all of that. Throughout both games we played with such great vision and possession.”

Looking back on the season, Grogan saw games to be proud of. “Our win against Woburn stands out,” she says. “They had come back to score two goals to make it close, and I think that reflected our play.” But she also pointed to their efforts against Wakefield and Wilmington. “We battled unlucky calls, played beautiful hockey, finished on plays we had been working on and showed up for each other.”

Melrose will graduate a massive 11 players that include Kaileigh Clark, Caeleigh Corolla, Olivia Galusi, Rory Kirby, Anna Mackey, Shannon Mackowski, Riley Maguire, Kalina Piasecki, Bridget Price, Caitlin Price and Erin Sampson.

Coach Grogan has cherished their contributions. “I’ve had the privilege of coaching them for the past three years. Caeleigh and Riley were consistent defenders with a competitiveness and strength over the ball that will be missed. Anna has been a key midfield for the program throughout her 4 years. Her high level of fitness and skills was a big asset to us. Rory Kirby played defense and midfield with speed and competitiveness. Olivia, Bridget, Kaileigh, Caitlin and Shannon were key contributors on our attack, bringing impactful energy. Kalina has been a spark on our forward line during her 4 years here. Her grit and ability to finish (with leading scorer as evidence) will be missed. Erin Sampson, although injured, was present and committed. Her dedication to the team was a great model for others.”

“Above all of that, this is a group you want to be around because of who they are as people.” Grogan is also indebted to her coaching staff. “A huge thank you to Coach Alisha Parsons and Coach Casey Considine for a great season. The JV team showed tremendous effort and growth over their season.”

Despite losing many seniors, experienced players return in starting sophomores Megan Casey and Meghan Maher, Lindsay Teeven, freshman scorer Ava Viola and goalie Layla Szymczak. That said, there remains opportunities for returning and new players alike. “We have a solid core returning next year that I’m excited about,” says Grogan. “We’ll work hard to encourage and welcome new players over the offseason to grow our numbers. It’s clear that the Melrose community (students, families and leaders) are special. I am extremely grateful for this role.”