The Skyline field hockey team completed their regular season with two wins this past week and appear ready for postseason play and a run at a state title.
On Monday, the Eagles hosted Huron on Senior Night. Five Skyline seniors were honored: Ava Victory, Joyce Kafi, Maddie Willacker, Kaitlin Schiller, and Jessica Courtright. After a festive introduction filled with chalk art, balloons, flowers, cookies, and senior introductions, the Eagles quickly established themselves offensively.
The Eagles racked up eight goals in an 8-0 win over the River Rats. Two goals were poured in each by senior captain Jessica Courtright, and sophomores Sadie Schultz, Cami Wiseman & Coco Courtright. While scoring was balanced, so were the assists. Seven assists were shared by six different Eagles: sophomore Chiara Bichakjian (2), Ava Victory (1), Jessica Courtright (1), sophomore Maddie Ellies (1), captain Morgan Nalepa (1) and Sadie Schultz (1). The Eagles had a very balanced offensive attack, which bodes well for postseason play.
Throughout the game, the Eagles controlled the backfield with senior captain Joyce Kafi leading the effort. Goalie Maddie Willacker had another shutout for the season and Ailish Kilbride and Ava Marble provided additional backfield support. The Eagles dominated from start to finish and it was a nice way to cap off a successful regular season record of 13 wins, 2 losses, and 1 tie.
On Tuesday, the Eagles travelled to Dexter and handed the Dreadnaughts another loss. The final score was 5-3 and both teams enjoyed an intense battle from start to finish. The Eagles jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead, but the Dreadnaughts fought back to even the score. Sophomore Cami Wiseman struck first to get the team on top 1-0. Jessica Courtright and Sadie Schultz provided additional offense with two goals and one assist a piece.
Many cards were issued during the game and the Eagles found themselves playing a man down for twelve minutes of the game. The back and forth play gave the Eagles defense a strong test. Senior goalie Maddie Willacker came up with some great saves and the backfield wall of Joyce Kafi, Ailish Kilbride, and Ava Marble handled the pressure. The Eagles were tested from start to finish, which will help the Eagles prepare for post season which begins Tuesday, October 26th.
The Michigan HS Field Hockey Division 1 Playoffs begin on Tuesday, Oct. 26 with the Eagles hosting Huron.
