Given their success in the past few years, the Hill girls field hockey team believes this year will be no exception. In fact, Head Coach Jenifer Weissbach thinks this is, “the most talented group I’ve ever coached at Hill.” The team has faith that this could be one of their best seasons yet.

As far as goals go for this year, head field hockey coach Jennifer Weissbach said, “I would be lying if winning a MAPL championship and winning a state championship weren’t part of our goals.” Currently ranked first in the nation by MaxPreps, the team wants to prove they deserve that ranking and are aiming for the gold this season by winning a PAISSA championship. Although they have never won one, they made it to the championship game in both 2019 and 2021.

The team has faith in Weissbach’s technique, especially co-captain Kerry Elliott ’23. “It’s been very directed to making sure we’re mentally good first which is really empowering and impactful,” Elliot said. “She really cares about us.”

As they prepare for one of their toughest schedules yet, Coach Weissbach encourages the team “to be the best you have to play the best.” The team plays many nationally ranked teams this year, such as Camden Catholic, Oak Knoll School, and Norfolk Academy.

Despite the overwhelming number of 6th formers, the team welcomed 4 new freshmen to the varsity squad. “They’re doing a really good job of stepping up; it’s really impressive,” co-captain Hala Silverstein ’23 said. “Everyone on our roster, I trust on the field.”

Along with their talent that is evident on paper, the team also cherishes their culture. Their team motto, “HFHF” (Hill Field Hockey Family) is something they strive to uphold and center. Weissbach implements that culture into their day-to-day practice and puts “a ton of effort, energy, and time” into making sure of that. This culture allows new and returning players to feel comfortable and that the field hockey team is their home away from home.

The HFHF motto, in the end, reflects the value of belonging and highlights the mental and physical preparation the team carries into this new year. “Even on your hard days, you got to give it your all and show up for your teammates,” Hala ’23 said.