Chicks with Sticks: THS Field Hockey

The Talawanda varsity field hockey team has become a more cohesive unit on and off the field with the addition of a new coach.

“Coaches around the league have been shocked by our improvement” said Ashley Dowler, senior on the varsity team.

This past year, a new head coach was put into play. Kate Byrd, assistant coach for 4 years before stepping up, is now assisted by Taylor Jarvi. Byrd planned very targeted and specific summer practices that focused on improving the team.

“She has focused on uniting us as a team because she knows we have to work together to win” said Dowler.

Taylor Jarvi is a former field hockey player and now has stepped up to assistant coach.  “I loved field hockey when I played in school,” Jarvi said.  “And my passion only grows as I take on this new role as a coach.”

“She always says if we aren’t winning, we are on our way to winning,” said Kaili Fuehrer, varsity player, about Byrd. “So even if we don’t win, we are just that much closer to succeeding in the long run.”

“Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work hard,” said Dowler. “Our team truly believes this and so far it has proven to be true…As a senior looking back, I believe we currently have the strongest varsity team since I’ve been around.”

The next Talawanda Varsity field hockey game is September 13 at 5pm. The game is at the old high school.