This year's Northampton field hockey alumni game was once again a success.

It was the second time in which Northampton has hosted an alumni game and this year everyone was celebrating the 50th anniversary of the sport at Northampton. The game falls on the Saturday following Thanksgiving each year, and although it is a little chilly, the players came buddled up and ready to play. After the game there was a small tailgate so that players could be nostalgic and catch up.

Tradition is strong in the community, along with school pride and spirit and this is one tradition that is hoped to continue. The event is made possible through a team effort. Enabling the game to happen is the support from the current varsity field hockey coach, Kelly Backenstoe, along with participation of the alumni players. Without either contribution, the game would not be possible.

This year there was around 30 alumni who came to the event. The alumni return to an organization and sport that has impacted their lives greatly. Though the ages varied, reaching the classes of 1975 to 2013, the heart and love for the field hockey game was all the same. The event even had previous coach, Debbie Anthony, return to help ref the contest alongside coach Julie Maurek, who continues to coach the junior varsity field hockey team.

Any field hockey alumnus is welcome to attend the game to either play or watch. There is an ongoing Facebook group: Northampton Field Hockey Alumni where updates about the game are posted.

If any alumni do not have Facebook, feel free to contact Gabrielle Smith gabrielle22smith@gmail.com to receive information about the game and be put on an email list. The group is looking to reach any alumni that they can.

It was a great feeling for all to wear the black and orange once again.