Rising Stars in the Green Mountain State
The 2026 field hockey season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory for Vermont’s high schools, with a crop of talented forwards poised to lead their teams on the scoreboard.
Among the standouts, Maddie Bean of Colchester earned a first‑team Metro Division nod in 2025, while Calleigh Bruyns from Essex was recognized on the BFP’s all‑state second team. Both players bring a blend of speed and scoring instinct that could make them early favorites for the upcoming watchlist.
Betta Cirovic of Woodstock added another layer of depth, collecting an all‑state honorable mention and a first‑team slot in the SVL ‘B’ Division. Her versatility as a playmaker and finisher makes her a key piece for her squad.
Aly Dorman from Mount Mansfield also made the BFP all‑state second team, and Belle Grattan of Burr and Burton contributed seven goals and four assists, helping the team reach the Division‑I semifinals.
Sophie Parker of Otter Valley exploded for 23 goals and two assists, propelling the Otters to the Division‑II semifinals, while Emery Thompson of Champlain Valley earned a Free Press first‑team all‑state selection.
Other notable names on the radar include Abby Hussey, Sadie Lizotte, Avery Maxfield, Chloe Pembroke, Grace Perreault, Eva Van Orman and Bella Walsh, each of whom contributed significantly to their teams’ successes in 2025.
The preseason watchlist, organized by school and class year, highlights these athletes as potential game‑changers. With upcoming features on football, cross‑country running and volleyball also on the horizon, the state’s sports coverage will continue to spotlight emerging talent across the board.
A Season of Anticipation
Coaches and analysts alike are watching closely as these forwards prepare for the new campaign. The blend of experienced seniors and rising juniors promises competitive matchups and a fresh wave of excitement for fans across Vermont.