(EDITOR’S NOTE - The Northern Lehigh field hockey preview was inadvertently left out of the Times News Fall Sports booklet that was published last week. Below is the field hockey preview)

NORTHERN LEHIGH

FIELD HOCKEY

TAKING OVER

… After serving as an assistant coach the last two years, Megan Leadbetter took over as the Bulldogs’ head coach just before the start of the season when former coach Kim Seiler resigned. Leadbetter, who previously served as interim head coach at DeSales University, said, “I am beyond excited to lead this program and apply what I have learned in my past experiences to help these girls succeed.”

WALK THE WALK

... Leadbetter praised her team’s ability to communicate while the ball is in play - an essential aspect of winning field hockey. Returning seniors whom she will count on to improve on last season’s 1-9 record are defender Olivia Hominger, midfielders Brooke Nonnemacher and Brianna Kuhn, forward Gabby Myster, and goalie Kendall Heiney. “I will be relying on them to step up in their roles on the team to help us win. The younger girls truly look up to our seniors and play for them every time they step on the field. I have big expectations for them and trust their every move,” Leadbetter said.

DIVERSITY AND COMMITMENT

... Leadbetter likes the versatility she has with juniors Lily Wanamker and Zoe Hathaway, who both can play offense or defense. Aricka Creyer and Delaney Szwast are returning sophomores who have worked hard in the offseason with some club time to improve their stick skills. Meanwhile, freshmen Addi Cieri and Cece Serfass have impressed with summer conditioning and weight training.

CHEMISTRY IS KEY

... Leadbetter believes that in order for her team to improve, they must learn each other’s style of play and work together as a team. “We have worked hard on this lately, and I am excited to see how the girls work together throughout the season,” she said. “This team will surprise many this season; I can’t wait to be a part of it.”

EYES ON THE PRIZE

... The Bulldogs are out to prove they can be competitive in the Colonial League, and will strive to qualify for the postseason. “My expectations are huge for these girls because I know they can come together and play some great hockey,” Leadbetter said. “This season has already provided a surprise with me taking over as head coach at the last minute. The girls are excited to be the underdogs and surprise our opponents. I know this year can be a huge step in the right direction for the field hockey program at Northern Lehigh.”