There was no shortage of enthusiasm for the start of the girl’s high school field hockey season.
The MRSS Ramblers dressed more than 40 players as the junior and senior teams played the Westview Wildcats to start of another season on Wednesday. Both teams then suited up for a two-day tournament in Chilliwack.
MRSS head coach Kira Sinow said most 22 of the junior players taking to the field have never played the game before.
“I do not cut players off of my team,” said Sinow. “Students are not intimidated to come out and try. Once I get the girls out to try the sport, they get hooked.”
She said once the girls are surrounded by a group of 40 peers, they feel like they are part of a bigger community.
“Students take a lot of pride being on a school team,” said Sinow.
The Ramblers dropped a 3-0 decision to the Wildcats.
Theresa Aherns of the Wildcats opened the scoring early in the first half. Daniella da Costa put the Wildcats up 2-0 and Liana Missori rounded out the scoring.
Westview head coach Kimberley Carlyle said she was real proud of her team’s effort.
“The juniors came out with a strong start,” said Carlyle. “It was a full team effort from every player. They made strong, smart passes. Most players are new to the game, but we are working well to come together as a team.”
The Wildcats head coach said da Costa had a strong game at midfield, while Bayly Jensen worked hard, created scoring opportunities throughout the game.
She said defensively, Britta Lorkowski had some strong tackles and was aggressive on the ball, while goalie Lily Ferguson was solid in net, clearing the ball effectively in front of her team
In senior girls action, the tables were turned as the MRSS Ramblers topped Westview 3-1.
The Ramblers goal scorers were Kaila Barteski, Kirsten Senchyna and Meaghan Christensen.