OxfordPress.com

Only four years after playing field hockey for Talawanda, Kate Moran is finding herself responsible for the entire team.

The Miami University senior said coaching the team has been really enjoyable so far, because the players share her passion for the sport. Moran said the team had a rough season last year, but said she hopes to improve on that through plenty of hard work and practice.

"They're still learning to play together right now," Moran said. "It's a new team and they're just trying to get a feel for each other."

The season kicked off with a play day at Summit Country Day School, where the varsity team lost all but one game and JV lost two games and tied two others.

The Braves began their season Wednesday with a home game against Summit Country.

They played again Thursday, taking on Indian Hill High School with another home game.

Moran said the team has no serious problems that need to be addressed, but noted a few injuries among the players have not helped.

While the injuries are certainly unfortunate, she said they are to be expected when playing a sport as rough as field hockey.

Moran said Shelby Colyer, the varsity goalie, and Kenna Halter, a varsity defender, are two players to watch this season.

Both girls are seniors at Talawanda High School.

As for her goals for this season, Moran said she just wants her players to have fun on the field and hopefully improve in the sport as well.

"Through a lot of practice, encouragement and just playing the sport together, I think they can accomplish a really good season this year," Moran said.

Contact this reporter at (513) 523-4139, ext. 86102, or at rgauthier@coxohio.com.