The Palo Alto High School girls' field hockey team is gearing up for a new campaign after finishing the previous season with an 11‑7‑1 overall record and a third‑place finish in the El Camino Division.
Graduation stripped the roster of several standout seniors, prompting the Vikings to lean on a younger contingent that includes a freshman and three sophomores.
A New Core Takes Shape
Head coach Alexa Gwyn, now in her second year at the helm, says the priority is not individual stats but collective effort, urging the squad to function as a single unit.
Captain Ella Renazco‑Sperling, who took over the leadership role this year, has made it her mission to welcome the newcomers and embed them in the team culture from day one.
Junior forward Ela Aba, who returns after a strong previous season, admits the loss of senior experience has been felt, but she sees the infusion of fresh talent as a chance to rebuild chemistry.
The Vikings will open the season at home against the Homestead Mustangs, with a kickoff scheduled for 5:15 p.m. on Thursday, setting the tone for a schedule that mixes familiar rivals and new opponents.
Coach Gwyn’s philosophy centers on motivation through shared goals, insisting that the team’s success will be measured by how well the players move together rather than by personal milestones.
With the first match approaching, the atmosphere in the locker room reflects a blend of optimism and determination, as the Vikings prepare to test themselves against both old and new challengers.