Caroline Stanley: Field Hockey Fiend
Jeffrey Gu '18, Editor-At-Large
Caroline Stanley, one of three current Girls Varsity Field Hockey captains, has been playing for the Hilltoppers since 8th grade.
Caroline Stanley, one of three current Girls Varsity Field Hockey captains, has been playing for the Hilltoppers since 8th grade.
Co-Captain Dunia Haboosh ’17 called Stanley a physical player who “makes big hits to get the ball up the field,” something she notes has been exceedingly important this 2016-17 fall season. Coach Steph McDonald said, “Caroline’s love of the game, willingness to have fun, and desire for success make her not only a pleasure to coach, but an amazing example to her teammates.”
Stanley’s start to the sport began with her mom. “She played when she was younger and loved it, and so she encouraged me to play the first year I could in my town. I started off a little unsure about the sport, but after the first scrimmage we played, I knew I love it,” said Stanley.
She has been playing since fourth grade and since then has been named to the New England All Tournament Team in 2014 and 2015. In 2015, she was also named to the Western New England All Star Team.
After playing the sport for nine years, Stanley feels she’s learned a lot about perseverance. Stanley said, “Field hockey has taught me that hard work pays off and to always strive for improvement.”
Libby Gardner ’18 said, “Caroline shows leadership through constantly showing support for the team and giving us constructive feedback…[she] is everywhere on the field and always on top of the ball, strategically planning her moves.”
Outside of Hopkins, Stanley also plays club for FC United, “an elite travel program for the serious field hockey players in Connecticut and the Westchester, NY area.” She’s played there since sixth grade.
The Hopkins Field Hockey Team plays in the Fairchester Athletic Association and currently has a winning record. Stanley said, “This season has been great, we have a really experienced team and it really shows in our team chemistry.”
Though Caroline will be graduating this spring, Hopkins Field Hockey won’t be without a Stanley. One of Caroline’s favorite field hockey moments includes when her sister, Lissy Stanley ’18, scored the winning goal against Sacred Heart two years ago, taking the team to New England’s.
Caroline Stanley will be playing next year at Davidson College.
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