West Islip Varsity Field Hockey Will Rely on Veteran Leadership, Young Talent in 2010

Record last year: 8-6

Head coach: Josephine Hassett. Assistant coach: JoAnne Orehosky

Key Players: GK Jessica Honan, F Alyssa Gatto, F Jessica Boden, OFF. Kate Beier.

Key Games: At North Babylon (9/20), West Babylon (10/21), At Bayport-Blue Point (10/23)

The West Islip Varsity field hockey team squeezed into the playoffs last season by winning a tie breaker for the sixth seed. This year, head coach Josephine Hassett  wants to make sure a tie breaker isn't necessary.

"We want to have a better record than last year and finish in the top six," coach Hassett said. "This year we want to be in the top six outright."

The team loses two All-County players in Devan Crimi and Stefanie Jackson.  This season, the team will look towards a mix of veteran leadership and young talent in order to make the playoffs.

"Our returning goalie, Jessica Honan, has been with us since her sophomore year," Hassett said. "She's been playing a lot, and we're hoping for her to step up. It's her senior year and she's a captain so we're looking for her to take charge."

The Lions will also look towards Kate Beier, a sensational sophomore who's been starting since she was a freshmen.

"She's taken leadership," Hassett said. "Her stick skills are probably one of the strongest out there, and she's fast."

Injuries are also a concern for this team, as two key players, Alyssa Gatto and Jessica Boden, have yet to participate in any scrimmages.

"We were hoping Alyssa would come back and help us but she's been out for a while so we're not sure what to expect from her this season," Hassett said. "We're hoping Jessica Boden returns as well. We hope to see something from them this season."

Hassett's main goal is to have one of the strongest defensive units in their division.  If they can do that, then they'll have their eyes set on the playoffs.  Their march begins Monday, Sept. 20 at North Babylon.