What makes a team successful is more than what’s shown on the scoreboard, records, or statistics. As a freshmen, playing on a varsity team can bring new competition, excitement, and expectations. Quinn Hallisey, a player on Hingham’s varsity field hockey, and Charlotte Mercer, a player on Hingham varsity soccer, shared their perspectives on team culture, group and individual goals, balancing school work with sports, and how their season had been going so far.
Field hockey and soccer are played on the same field, but differ in terms of team culture and environment both on and off the field. When asked about her experience walking onto a team of mostly older, well bonded players, Mercer explained, “the team is extremely inclusive and friendly. Everyone gets along very well, and is sure to make everyone feel like they’re a part of the team’s overall success.” The inclusivity of the team allows players to feel connected to one another. Friendship is a key factor required to accomplish their aspired achievements on the field.
The two athletes from different teams seemed to share similar perspectives on their teams overall atmosphere. Hallisey described, “it’s been great getting to connect with the upper classmen. Starting the year at the high school is easier when there are people to say hello to in the halls, and older girls to talk to and learn from. Everyone supports each other both on and off the field, and the positive and encouraging environment allows everyone to improve their level of play.” Hallisey, being the only freshmen on varsity, walked on to a team with no one from her grade. Support from the players around her allowed her to thrive and play at her fullest potential.
Although the two sports partially depend on individual skill, success only comes from team effort and connection. Quinn was asked about their team’s goals, and what they want to get out of the fall season. Hallisey replied, “As a team, we really want to learn how each person plays, and use everyone’s personal skills to create success during games.” Victory doesn’t come without working together and building bonds within the team. Learning each individual skills and strengths allows the players to work with each other, and create the best opportunities throughout the game to be successful.
Finally, after asking Mercer the same question, she remarked, “Our team’s goals this season are to make it to playoff, and hopefully finals. We all believe that we have the potential and capability to get there.” Drive and determination shines when an end goal is there to work for. As each player is reminded of finals, they are eager to work harder and finish the season strong.
Although the two are involved in distinct sports, their experiences are more alike than not. Both teams plan to work hard this fall, with the goal of being the best they possibly can. The two have formed bonds with their teammates that get them one step closer to achieving their goals. Being two freshmen on varsity, the athletes have gotten the opportunity to build new friendships, compete with goals in a high level sport, and make a positive impact to their team.
