The Chieftains’ field hockey team finished off the season strong with 16 wins, zero losses, and two ties, officially entering the playoffs. Masco was ranked 6th in Division 2 and #16 overall in the state.
With playoffs starting, coach Vanessa McGuire trains these girls every day, staying locked in, motivated, and ready for when they have to face challenging games.
“This group of girls played with remarkable passion and purpose. They committed to high-intensity practices, stayed mentally locked in, and held each other accountable every day, “ said Coach Vanessa McGuire.
Team leadership and key players have been central to Masco’s success this season. Senior Captains Savannah Stevens and Emma Campagna have guided the team both on and off the field, while defenders junior Ella Mossey, senior Hannah Mitchell, sophomore Olivia Palmer, and junior Sabrina Cafarelli have provided a solid backbone in the backfield. In the midfield, junior Mia Marques and senior Genevieve Clapp controlled the flow of the game, and up front, senior Ava Guavain has been a scoring force, netting 27 goals this year.
The athletes contribute in multiple ways–not just in games but in practices and even off the field. Supporting each other emotionally and boosting teammates when spirits were low are key parts of the program.
“Everyone overall supports and uplifts each other, and the program has a large emphasis on bringing each other up if you see someone feeling down,” said Mossey.
The teams had some unforgettable moments this season, one being when the team helped their captain score a point after being on the sideline all season due to an injury, creating a sentimental moment with the team.
“The team united to help our senior captain, Emma Campagna, who has been sidelined all season with an injury, score a goal,” said McGuire. “Savannah Stevens carried the ball down the field and set up Emma for the tip.”
The athletes have been preparing for the upcoming games, leading to their first playoff game on November 3, winning 4-3. The players are focused, motivated, and ready to bring their all.
Not losing a single game all season has been a major motivator for the team, pushing them to improve both individually and collectively. Leaving unbeatable pride for the girls putting as much effort as they can, not just for themselves but for their legacy.
“It was such an unbeatable pride when I would be recognized as a player on such a team in public when wearing merchandise,” said senior Olivia Tsoukalas.”Every day, the girls and I put so much effort into this sport, not only for ourselves, but for our coaches, parents, and the legacy we will leave behind.”
Masco closed out the regular season by capturing the NEC championship with a 1-0 win over Gloucester. Mia Marques scored early in the first quarter with a strong double pull to the right and a shot from the top of the circle, while Christina Connelly earned a shoutout with five saves in the net.
With fundamentals, teamwork, and high-intensity effort fueling their streaks, the Chieftains look ready to make some noise during the playoffs.