The Oak Park and River Forest High School field hockey team improved its record to 4-3 after a 3-1 victory over Naperville North on September 4, marking a turnaround from a recent slump.
Coach Wirtz Praises Team's Determination
Coach Kristin Wirtz, in her eighth year as head coach, said the team's determination and hard work have been evident throughout the early part of the season.
Senior midfielder and co-captain Maeve Carmody, who posted 11 goals and seven assists last season, believes the early‑season progress reflects the squad's growing confidence, a sentiment shared by her teammate and co‑captain Maeve Fishburne.
The roster includes returning veterans such as senior defenders Elizabeth Avalos and Claudia Smith, midfielders Maeve Fishburne and Mallory McConville, forwards Josie McConville and Ivy Schottler, and goalkeeper Anna Frost, while newcomers bring fresh energy: freshmen Olivia Guzman-Badillo and Dani Ortega, sophomore defender Aminah Mbengue, sophomore goalkeeper Jeannette Fort, and senior goalkeeper Maggie Fougere.
Carmody's selection for the USA Field Hockey Junior Nexus Championship team has boosted her performance and confidence, a factor she credits for the strong chemistry she shares with Fishburne on the field.
Tournament Success in Ann Arbor
At the Great Lakes Region Tournament held in Ann Arbor, the Huskies posted a 2-1 record, highlighted by a 1-0 win against Grosse Pointe South, demonstrating their ability to compete at a high level.
Looking ahead, the team aims to sustain this momentum, play each match to its fullest, and build a strong postseason run.