By Jeff Moeller

Special to the Press

Shelby Haldeman began her field hockey career in third grade, playing for Egypt Park in Whitehall.

Through the years, the Catasauqua senior has seen her career blossom to her current state, where she was an integral player in helping her team to the district playoffs for the second straight season.

The Rough Riders finished with an overall 7-11 record, and they lost to Pen Argyl, 1-0, in the opening round of the District 11 Class 2A playoffs.

Haldeman also took it upon herself to be a leader for the team this season.

“I feel that the girls this season really took the time and put in the effort to improve which overall benefited our team,” reflected Haldeman. “With our team getting better day by day, it allowed us to achieve our goal of making it to districts.”

She also was proud of her individual effort, as Haldeman raised her scoring from 10 goals and seven assists from last year to 14 goals and eight assists this season.

Overall, Haldeman has enjoyed the ride and adjusted along the way.

“Over the years I have had a wide variety of coaches, that all influenced me in many different ways,” said Haldemam. “Whether it’s playing with my club team or my high school team, I have enjoyed playing with all different people that have a wide variety of skills and learning each person’s individual strengths. I believe that playing with people with different strengths, benefited my personal skills, because it forced me to learn all different styles of play.”

Her coach appreciated all of her contributions.

“Shelby is a phenomenal player and always will be,” said Roughies’ head coach Amanda Freiler. “She plays year round and I’m sure will play in college once she decides where. She’s definitely someone the team looks up to for help with their own skills, and someone they know they can rely on.”