Blair girls’ varsity field hockey squared off in a tight senior night win against Walter Johnson

Blair Varsity Field Hockey 2024 Senior Night

Photo: Blair Blazers evade Wildcat defense

Blair Blazers evade Wildcat defense Photo courtesy of Thea Womack.

On Oct. 16, the Blair girls’ varsity field hockey team (9-2) pulled off a dramatic 1-0 senior night win over the Walter Johnson Wildcats (7-4). In a close game many attempted but no one scored goals until the last quarter. The Blazers’ teamwork and coordination resulted in amazing defense which won them the game. 

From the initial whistle, the Wildcats came out charging and immediately pressured the Blazers defensive line. The first few minutes of the game resulted in Walter Johnson receiving two penalty corners in quick succession, but Blair’s defense — headed by senior goalie and team captain Keelin Pegg — remained unshaken. Pegg’s quick reflexes and the Blazers' well coordinated shots kept the Wildcats off the scoreboard, setting the tone for a tight match filled with defensive battles and sporadic attacks. 

As the first half progressed, Blair began to claw their way back into the Wildcats’ circle. Junior defender Lilah “Mac” Coleman’s sharp shot off an offensive penalty corner in the second quarter was Blair’s first real chance to score, but the Wildcats’ defense scrambled to clear the ball just wide of the net. The back-and-forth continued with both teams exchanging possession in midfield, unable to break the deadlock. By halftime, the scoreboard still read 0-0.

When play resumed, Blair turned up the intensity. Junior forward Addy Hogan and senior captain forward Carmella Beach slowly but surely blazed through the Wildcat defense with quick passes and well-timed interceptions that kept the Wildcats on their heels. Despite their best efforts, the Blazers couldn’t find the net, but managed to keep the pressure on their opponents. 

The Blazers momentum culminated in a goal from Beach in the final quarter. After relentless pressure from Blair, Walter Johnson’s defense began to falter. A misplaced pass from the Wildcats led to a Blair penalty corner — and this time, the Blazers were ready. The ball was cleanly pushed out to Beach, who dodged past multiple defenders and drove a powerful shot into the net with just under 14 minutes to go. The crowd erupted with cheers as the girls on field celebrated their goal. Now, with Blair holding the only point in the game, defense became even more important. In a frantic attempt to level the score, Walter Johnson received two penalty corners but to no avail — Pegg took on their challenges, making a clutch save to seal the Blazers ninth victory of the season. The end score was 1-0 in favor of the Blazers. 

After their hard-fought win, the girls’ field hockey team celebrated their nine seniors in a heartfelt ceremony. Each senior received flowers and cheers from their closest friends and family, as well as tight hugs from their coaches. Senior forward ÁnhTâm Pham found the night to be unforgettable. “That last moment was special, all of our seniors running towards our goalie,” she explained. “We’ve all become so close, and it’s just an overall special event.”

Head coach Holly Stofa emphasized the importance of this game as a test for the team. “This was our biggest test since early in the season, and it was an opportunity to see that we can play really solid defense,” Stofa explained. She also reflected on the value of senior night, describing the team’s unique bond. “This group of girls is one of the most connected we’ve had in a while,” she says. “Senior night is about celebrating everything they’ve given to the program, and we, as coaches, are just as grateful for all they’ve contributed.”