The Whitehall field hockey team has got off to a great start so far this season, winning their first three games as of early this week.

“Our first two games showcased strong offensive play, while our third game against Freedom was a challenging contest that extended into overtime,” said head coach Gabi Smith.

Smith said several Zephyrs made notable contributions, including Kerigan Dreisbach, Lydia Keppel, Ava Kneller, Ava Kozak, Emily Kern, and Audra Sommer, all of whom scored goals in the first three games.

“During the initial week of the season, our focus was on maximizing our offensive scoring opportunities. However, the Freedom game highlighted the need to also strengthen our defensive strategies. As the season progresses, it will be crucial for our defensive players to excel,” Smith said.

The girls beat Freedom 3-2 and Eastburg South 2-0 after a 10-0 win to start the season. Most recently the team did lose 3-1 to Stroudsburg on Tuesday.

Smith pointed to key senior Emily Grol, who Smith said has the ability to force opponents wide and away from the goal. Josie Shult’s effective low block tackles, Lydia Keppel’s strong recoveries, Olivia Fonzone’s quick advances up the field, and Sarah Mullin and Emmy Kern as reliable wide passing options have also helped the Zephyrs this season. Smith added she also anticipates contributions from Celina Abboud on defense this season.

“In goal, Lily Trocki will need to maintain her quick footwork. We are hopeful that forward Molly McFetredge will also make a significant impact on the score sheet,” Smith said. “Our goal is to continue developing our passing flow and better utilize the width of the field. As always, we are aware of the strong competition ahead and are committed to delivering our best performance in each game.”

Editor’s note: In last week’s special fall insert edition, Emily Grol’s name was mistakingly left out of the article. Grol is a key, returning senior on this year’s team. Smith added about Grol: “Emily excels at forcing opponents wide and away from the goal, providing essential support to our defense this season.”

The Press apologizes for the mistake.

Golf

The Stroudsburg golf team posted their season-best total to defeat Whitehall 406-410 at Twin Lakes Golf Course.

Hunter Probst medaled by shooting 69, which is the 9th time he has broken 70 in his high school career. Stroudsburg’s other top 4 scores were: Paulie Maccarrone who fired an 82, while Colin Wrazien shot a career best 83; Gael Ramirez posted an 85 and Sam Diola shot 87. Stroudsburg is now 6-3 on a season.

Tommy and Jack Lloyd led Whitehall. Tommy shot a 77 with Jack carding a 79.

Julian Saba had an 81 and Mason Nommie an 86. Matt Nommie had an 87. Brett Cohan and Logan Shean shot 91s.

Tennis

Whitehall tennis fell to Pleasant Valley 4-2.

The Zephs picked up two doubles wins. Leah Bachour and Alyssa Collazo were 86 winners over Breslin Beck and Emma Kish at two doubles. At three doubles, Grace Ruta and Gig Burgio won 8-2 over Marissa Hauck and Avene Acevedo.

Elena Attieh and Lamitta Layous fell at two doubles 8-3.

In singles action, Jassica Lin lost 8-2 to Briana Pridham at one. At two, Angie Ramierz lost 8-2 to Shannon Price and Marilyn Ogunsemore dropped an 8-4 match to Avery Cogan at three singles.