Field Hockey squad tries to regroup and refocus

Not knowing what to expect from the upcoming season, the field hockey team, with new coach Marisa Didio, strode confidently into its opening games. Now, with their record standing at 1-4, the team is struggling to answer difficult questions. How could this talented team let two sure wins slip away? Why can't the forwards convert shots to goals? What is in store for the remainder of the season?

On Wed., Sept. 24, the squad suffered an overtime loss to Fairfield, who scored with just seconds remaining in regulation to force the extra period. Despite dominating for most of the game and outshooting their opponents, the Elis were unable to convert their lead into victory. The Stags, however, capitalized on their few opportunities, converting two penalty corners to goals. With archrival Harvard coming to New Haven on Sat., Sept. 27, the Bulldogs are searching themselves for the answers.

Following their fourth loss in five contests, the captain of the beleaguered squad struggled to comprehend how they could let another sure win slip by with only seconds on the clock. "We just couldn't put the nail in the coffin. Three freshmen are starting this year, bringing different styles, backgrounds, and attitudes to the game. Losing seven starters from the 1996 unit has hurt the team, and the lack of composure has shown in the opening games," Liz Dawson, CC '98, said.

Most of the seasoned players feel that while the losses have been tough, there have been some noteworthy and positive points. The younger players have become more protective of leads through the end of games, and team chemistry has not been adversely affected by the losses. The squad lost five players at the season's start, but Abby Alt, JE '99, insisted that the departures have not affected the team. "A certain amount of turnover can be expected. It wasn't too much of a surprise to see some players leave," Alt said.

Perhaps the most significant addition to the team this year is head coach Marisa Didio, who has earned respect in the field hockey world with past successes. Along with a 177-70-21 career record, Didio brought to Yale entirely new offensive and defensive systems, which place an increased emphasis on defensive and mental toughness. Didio described this style of play as "a highly skilled style of hockey where every player on the field is used." She has also demanded a renewed commitment from the team in general and has worked toward increasing trust between players.

The dynamic coaching staff introduced an interesting dimension to Bulldog field hockey. "The personalities of the three coaches really complement each other," Megan Reed, CC '98, said. Among the new staff's policies were improved communications and an elevated commitment to the game. The team adopted a mission statement and a code of conduct at the start of the season. "Coach Didio communicates goals and game strategies extremely well, and that makes us play better," Dawson said. Whether these changes will eventually contribute to a winning campaign remains to be seen.

Coming into this year, the players were seeking to improve upon last year's season, a sub-.500 effort where, according to Reed, "Almost every game went into double or triple overtime. And then we would lose." Consequently, the seniors were hoping that a new coach would breathe some fresh life into the program. So far, most players have noted an increased intensity on the field, but unfortunately this has not translated into increased goals and victories.

The transition from one coach to another takes time, especially when a new playing system is put into place. Losing seven starters has not helped make the transition smooth, but the Elis are hoping to pull their talented group together. "We need to take our system to the maximum potential, as well as raising the level of performance after we take a lead. We have to demand winning," said Didio.

Greatness, however, takes time. Until then, the squad is content to take each game one at a time, slowly melding their skills into one solid playing style. Learning to play together, working as a team, and overcoming tough, early defeats are important steps inthe Blue's quest for a successful season.

Back to Sports...