Captains Bring Hockey to the Next Generation
On May 26, Clarkston Girls Varsity Field Hockey captains Elly Ryan, Julia Verbeke and Paige Krol stepped onto the campus of Clarkston Junior High School to introduce the sport to a new wave of players. The trio addressed a group of incoming ninth and tenth graders, sharing the excitement of representing their school on the field and handing out flyers that detailed an upcoming off‑season camp.
The camp, scheduled for June 16 through June 18 at the Clarkston Junior High School stadium, will run for three days and is open to girls entering grades 9‑12. Participants will learn fundamental techniques, meet high school coaches, and keep their skills sharp during the summer months. Head Coach Cary Exline highlighted the importance of early preparation, noting that starting the season with a strong foundation can make a decisive difference when the fall schedule begins.
Registration for the camp is handled through Independence Township Parks, Recreation and Seniors, whose website provides a straightforward online portal for families to secure spots. The partnership between the school district’s Clarkston Community Education and the township’s recreation department ensures that the camp benefits from both academic oversight and community resources.
After the final day of drills and games, the captains expressed palpable enthusiasm about the upcoming practice season. Their excitement reflects not only personal ambition but also a broader commitment to growing the program’s visibility and participation across the district.