Field Hockey Seeks a Fantastic Fourth

In 2008, coach Mo Minicus's Blue Wave field hockey team ran the table after tying with Norwalk in its opener, winning its next 21 games for a 21-0-1 record and a second straight state championship.

In the 2009 season, the Wave did even better. The squad went 22-0 and won a third straight title, compiling some unbelievable numbers along the way: 102 goals scored, 5 goals against, 17 shutouts (9 of them consecutive), and just two one-goal wins (including a 1-0 double overtime victory again Wilton in the quarterfinals).

So what do you do for an encore? Win a fourth straight title, go undefeated, and do it all without giving up a goal?

Minicus laughed at the suggestion and said that might be too lofty a goal, but she'll be more than pleased with an unblemished record and an FCIAC and state title again–along with that familiar #1 state ranking.

Helping the Wave toward that end are seven returning starters and some "outstanding newcomers," Minicus said, giving the team a blend of experience and athleticism.

The Wave loses its core defensive unit. Goalie Aimee Rich has graduated, but she'll more than likely be replaced by last year's backup, Perrin Brown, with returnee Claire Dixon backing her up.

The team also loses Alex Bair, Anna Heck, Ella Heck, and Taylor Wells, who all graduated last year.

Galen Rohn will fill one of those holes. She's "athletic and strong," Minicus said, and brings ice hockey experience. Kate Huber moves up from JV and is expected to step in immediately.

Another new new player expected to fit right in is Lexi Perticone, who trades in her hockey stick for a field hockey one. She also moves up from JV and, like Huber, is expected to provide immediate help.

Perticone's younger sister, Hollis Perticone, is a freshman who "has had a great tryout," according to Minicus. The coach said that Hollis, who is also set to play hockey this winter, will see some game time.

The 2010 squad will have four juniors: Rohn, Mimi Morgan, Lilly Cassidy, and Julia Cobb.

As far as still feeling good about last season, "complacency won't be  a problem," Minicus said. "The girls are excited, the skill level is high and everyone understands the pressure that comes with winning."

The Wave's opener is at home on Sept. 14 against Stamford. They'll play a 15-game regular season schedule.