DV field hockey captains lead by example

Through both the joy of earning a win and even when they suffer a setback, something that’s remained consistent for the Delaware Valley High School field hockey program is the dependable leadership demonstrated by the captains on the roster — Kayla Sykes, Ava Kraszewski, Mackenzie Koger, Ava O’Grady and Jenna Zuelch. Each of these student athletes are members of the graduating class of 2025.

“These athletes are incredibly dedicated to our team, the sport and their own personal improvement,” Delaware Valley Head Coach Marielle Cohen said. “They are great leaders, communicate well with their teammates, lead by example, and have a variety of different leadership styles that they each use.”

Cohen went on to share some stats for October thus far: Goalie Jenna Zuelch has totaled 136 saves so far, including six shutouts. Ava Kraszewski has six goals and Kayla Sykes has three goals. Mackenzie Koger has seven assists, Ava Kraszewski has five assists and Kayla Sykes has nine assists. Ava O’Grady has four defensive saves and Mackenzie Koger has three defensive saves.

Coach Cohen has noticed the areas in which every captain has improved this season. It deserves mention that the captains are very strong academically as well.

“Leadership, especially in terms of communication with their teammates on and off the field [has improved],” Cohen said. “Mental game, they have really focused on this so far this season and I think it is paying off quite a bit.”

The coaching staff is proud of the ways in which the captains interact with their teammates and help them on and off the field.

“They lead by example, showing how their hard work and dedication can pay off,” Cohen said. “The captains work hard and intensely to improve every day at practice and take every game very seriously. They also try to assist younger players in learning the game and various skills. All five of the field players have been on the varsity team for four years, contributing greatly. Jenna has recorded almost 500 saves (496) in her three years of varsity.

“They have been an amazing group of student athletes to work with and I will miss all of them in years to come on the field, but especially off the field, where they have crafted great relationships with their team and the coaching staff.”

Several student athletes have contributed to the Warriors’ success this year. “Junior Taylor Spears leads the team with 11 goals and sophomore Jordyn Ciarelli has scored nine,” Cohen added.