Penn State Field Hockey Head Coach Char Morett-Curtiss was pleased with the team's two wins last weekend over Michigan State. She felt that the players have handled the adjustments of this season well, overall exemplifying the team's maturity and strong senior leadership. "It's really fun, it's motivational I think for all of us, and inspiring to see the improvements week after week."
Morett-Curtiss couldn't be prouder of her players not only during games, but during practices as well. "This team has found a way every time we've competed to get better."
She feels that the team's offense is balanced, as a strong focus this season has been on the backs and midfield involvement in offensive plays. "I really feel like us getting numbers up on our attack is really important to create more of those scoring opportunities."
This sets up more players for scoring and assisting chances, putting a lot of pressure on other teams' defense. The Nittany Lions' offense has shown a lot of success so far this season in converting on plays created in the backfield. "I have to give credit to our attacking players. If they're not scoring, they're working so hard on the press to create those opportunities in transition."
When the coronavirus pandemic first impacted the team a year ago, players remained on track with their training schedule and workouts, which has been the biggest difference maker for the team this season. "I feel really proud of what they've done, and I really commend them for their individual and team commitment to the fitness factor that helps us push the pedal to the metal in the games."
The Nittany Lions are excited to be back at home this week and are ready to practice. They plan on taking full advantage of their bye week as they have reached the mid-point in the season. The team is going to work on their elimination skills during practice, focusing on smaller, game-like situations.
With a new spring format, the coaching staff has had to adjust the practice schedule to accommodate the players mentally and physically this season. After coming off a long game weekend, the team is still tired at the beginning of the week as they recharge. "Monday is the day off, but Tuesday we're still a little tired," explains Char. Towards the end of the week, the pace of practice picks up in order to stay competitively sharp. This weekend, Morett-Curtiss wants her players to put their field hockey sticks away in order to enjoy 48-hours to themselves.
Bree Bednarksi plans to use the off time to support other Penn State athletic teams while enjoying springtime in State College. After playing seven games in four weeks, Bednarski is ready to finish the season strong. Her excitement to be playing field hockey again has helped serve as motivation, "I'm ready to play."
With a core group of returning players, Bednarski feels that the younger players have acclimated well to their style of play and together are now playing as a cohesive unit. The underclassmen are well-trained players, so it was easy for them to find themselves and truly fit in with the rest of the team. "From Virginia Beach, we've obviously grown already and we're going to continue to grow." With more practices, the team is focused on what needs to be better in order to create more scoring opportunities moving forward.
As a senior, Bednarski has been an influential part of the team's success. She was proud to be named Big Ten Offensive Player of the week, proof that her hard work is paying off. "It was the best feeling," shared Bree.
Graduating this May as a Biobehavioral Health major, Bree is excited to return to Penn State this fall, as she takes advantage of her extra year of eligibility and looks to earn a graduate certificate.
