Experience, Camaraderie Strengths for Field Hockey

The girls varsity field hockey team at Chatham High School begins their season Thursday with a game against West Essex. With 20 players filling out the roster this year, the team has every reason to expect a successful year.

OVERVIEW

With six returning seniors the Chatham Girls Field Hockey team is set for success. With chemistry and experience on its side the captains know that the team is motivated improve from last year and make a stir in the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference.

LAST SEASON'S RESULTS

Last season the Cougars boasted a 20-5 record and were Morris County Champions. The team was named County Team of the Year by the Daily Record and eighth year head coach Jeremy Heinze was named county Coach of the Year.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON

• Natalia Maurillo (Sr. Center Forward)—The 2010 Daily Record Player of the Year, Maurillo was the Cougars’ top scorer last year with 28 goals. Maurillo will continue her field hockey career after graduation at Quinnipiac University.
• Megan Palmisano (Sr. Sweeper)—Palmisano will be moving from her left back position into the sweeper role for the 2011 season. Palmisano will continue to be a threat in the attacking role as she was in 2010.
• Meghan Murray (Sr. Right Mid)—Murray and Maurillo were a one-two tandem in the 2010 season. Look to Murray to create the scoring opportunities for Maurillo and the other Cougars.

THEY'LL MISS

• Sarah Tompson, Sweeper—Thompson was one of twelve seniors on the 2010 county championship team. Thompson was named the team’s MVP in addition to garnering first county team honors. She now plays collegiately at William Smith College.
• Eileen McHugh, Center-Mid—McHugh was named to the second team county honors in 2010. She now plays collegiately at Swarthmore College.

COACH'S TAKE

“We have high expectations based on years past. We have a lot of developed talent and all county caliber players. What we will need to do is have kids step into roles and elevate their game” said head coach Jeremy Heinze.

THEY SAID IT

“Our team should come out really strong this season,” said Senior Captain Natalia Maurillo

“We are really motivated to do well in our conference,” said Senior Captain Megan Palmisano

2011 VARSITY FIELD HOCKEY TEAM ROSTER