Once the calendar turns to the month of August, time flies. Student-athletes trade in their beach days for training and work-outs to gear up for the fall sports season, including playing in alumni games, twice a week summer games and captain’s practices.

Current and former field hockey players got together on Aug. 1 for a fun alumni game on turf field. Coach Becky Manson started this tradition when she took over the program many years ago at Gorham High School. Coach Manson added, “The first alumni game I organized only a few former athletes showed up. But this most recent game was held at the University of Southern Maine where we had 19 returning alumni come out to play. I had a wide range of past players show up including Faith Dillon, Danielle Moody, Dee Emery, Kayleigh Ballentine and Hannah Prince.”

All were fantastic field hockey players who went on to play, and for some, Division I. This platform allows former players to reconnect with their teammates and their community, often bringing up fond memories. It also draws inspiration for current players from alumni who have gone on to achieve success, learning from their experiences and seeing potential paths for their own future.

It really is a full-circle moment. Ultimately, it is a fun way to get together and start the new year off with a boost. Coach Manson shared, “What I love a lot, too, about the alumni game, is that the alumni’s parents come out to watch as well. It’s a special time and wonderful to catch up with everyone.”

For all field hockey players who love their sport, this is a fantastic opportunity to play and spend time together before, during and after the event. Senior field hockey stand-outs Annabell Collier and Reece Leclerc are looking forward to being senior leaders for their team and are looking forward to the new challenges of competing in the season coming up.