The stage is now set and the Whitehall field hockey team is about to embark on their second season starting Oct. 23.

The seedings have been issued, the pairings finalized, so right now it's time to prepare for the run to the state tournament and a possible title.

The Zephs will open the District XI AAA playoffs as the eighth seed, hosting William Allen High School, the ninth seed, in the pigtail round. The game begins 6:30 p.m. at the Zephyr Sports Complex.

Whitehall last faced Allen on Sept. 30, winning 1-0 in overtime on a goal by Kourtney Cunningham. As they prepare for the Canaries, interim head coach Jen Callahan said that it basically boils down to showing up and playing hard. She believes if they stick together and work as a team, success will come.

"If we play as best we can, we should be able to secure a win," said Callahan.

Allen will pose some problems. They have a number of skill players, led by Maiyah Brown and Myesha Molitroisz. Callahan said that both players earned postseason honors, and they'll be looking to get the offense clicking for the Canaries. Allen finished the regular season 10-8.

The Zephs counter with some strong goal scorers as well. Leading the team this year was Kourtney Cunningham with 11 goals and nine assists for 33 points. Her speed makes her a tough mark, and it was that attribute that gave them the win in their last meeting. Taylor George can also find the back of the net. She finished with seven goals and eight assists. Additionally, Kylee Cunningham and Sarah Schannauer are productive offensive players, each player finishing the regular season with seven goals and four assists for 18 points.

With the two teams last facing each other three weeks ago, Callahan believes having the knowledge of how they play and what to expect, works to their advantage.

"We know their style, and what they try to do tactically," said Callahan.

She said that's just a matter of preparation and making sure they play to the best of their ability.

They also have to contend with goalkeeper Rico Santana whose size and length will be another hurdle they'll have to overcome. In that win over the Canaries, Kourtney Cunningham said it was important to get him moving since he covers such a wide area. Once he's committed to one side, it's easier to find an opening.

"He covers a lot of space, and has great reactions," said Callahan. "He can be challenging."

If they do advance, they'll get the opportunity to play Emmaus High School who are fresh off their 10th straight Lehigh Valley Conference title. The Green Hornets enter the tourney as the No. 1 seed and will be a big challenge should the Zephs advance.

Still, Callahan knows she has a good team. They have a strong offense and a solid defense. It's now about lining up and playing hard.