The Deerfield JV Field hockey team traveled to Hotchkiss on Sept. 21 for a hot, buggy, and highly competitive game. The Hotchkiss Bearcats snuck in three goals in quick succession in the first ten minutes, but after a timeout, Deerfield rallied and presented a tough, consistent defense. Lily Faucett ’20 had several defensive saves, and Ellie Shilling ’21 provided a composed, focused presence on the field. Cam Howe ’22 and Hunter Keller ’20 thwarted many attacks from Hotchkiss, stealing the ball at just the right moment sending strong hits to our forward line. With 4 minutes left in the half, a stray ball led to one more Hotchkiss goal to finish the half 0-4.
Deerfield returned for the second half continuing to build offensive momentum from the strength of the backfield. Emma Jaskolski ’20 brought renewed energy and intensity, and Deerfield forced the Bearcats to defend their circle on many offensive pushes. On one such attack, Jo Louis ’23 was able to draw a corner, off of which Jaskolski sent a low flick into the goal. Working hard up and down the field, Deerfield showed grit and determination and managed to shut Hotchkiss out throughout the entire second half. Their persistence was exemplified in an offensive push and penalty corner in the last minute, though the final score remained 1 – 4.