Beginning as a club team in 2013, the Westminster field hockey program has grown into a full fledged varsity team with a JV team, a C team, and two middle school teams in addition. Over the past four years the team has gone from just a concept in the minds of Varsity Coach Nancy Schmer and JV coach Michelle Pottebaum to a full fledged, competitive program.

While the quick expansion of the team is clearly notable, the heart and soul of the team lies with the girls themselves. They are the glue of the program that makes it so unique.

“They committed to this team knowing that they would be up against established programs and teams with more experience. They are working daily to improve their skills and continue to strive for excellence on and off the hockey field,” said Schmer.

Not only are these girls committed to working hard to stay on par with the other more established varsity programs, but they also work hard off the field. There is an unmistakable bond between these girls that sets them apart from other teams.

“The team is constantly encouraging and looks past the wins and losses.” said Lucy Kehr, senior.

Kehr is one of the captains of the varsity squad and is looking forward to a final season with the Wildcats. She speaks highly of the girls on the team and their encouragement. Also, Kehr has been impacted by the program in learning how to cope with loss and celebration. The team is constantly able to mourn the losses but also to celebrate the small victories within each game.

As the program looks towards its future, both the coaches and girls have high goals and  expectations for the team not only on but also off the field.

“I want this team to be a team of humility and a team that rejoices in the little things,” said Lucy Kehr, senior and team captain.

Schmer projects that the program should someday reach State Champion status, but for this season she has some more practical expectations and goals for the team

“These girls have already exceeded all of my expectations. They are working daily to get better,” said Schmer.

While all the girls have different expectations for the season, the main goal for the team would be to put some points on the scoreboard and beyond that to have fun and work hard while doing it.