Field hockey loses to Conn. College

The Wesleyan field hockey team ended a disappointing season last Saturday, losing in overtime to Connecticut College, 4-3, and barely missing a spot in the NESCAC playoffs. The women ended with a 3-11 overall record, largely due to an inefficient offense that plagued them throughout the season. Only near the end was the team able to consistently put the ball in the net, scoring nine goals in its last two games after scoring only eight total in the previous twelve contests. The lack of goals led to numerous one-point losses, as well as countless shutouts. The high point of the season came with a 5-4 win over Bates a week and a half ago—which was, sadly, the team’s only success against a NESCAC team.

Two seniors, Molly O’Connell ’09 and Hailey Sarage ’09, ended their Wesleyan careers this fall. O’Connell was unable to play due to a herniated disk in her back, an unfortunate end to her four years on the squad. Sarage ended her career as the second-leading scorer on the team this season, with three goals and two assists. Compensating for their departure, six freshmen from this fall gained the necessary experience to qualify them for veteran roles next season.

The highlights of this year’s team included a June trip to Argentina and a chance to “Play for the Cure” at Colby in the beginning of October. The NESCAC-wide event featured pink warm-up shirts, pink balloons, and pink game balls as the field hockey community raised awareness about breast cancer and the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Even with a rough season, the women were able to come together as a team, ensuring a close-knit community for next fall. The Cardinals will work in the off-season to perfect their game and return with new energy for next year.