Over the past three years, Lizzy Bass has been developing her game in the nets for the Catasauqua field hockey team.

She learned her craft from former goalie Sophia Becker and assistant coach Ashley LaBar. In turn, Bass has surfaced as one of the more respected goalies in the Colonial league and the Lehigh Valley.

This season as she enters her senior season, Bass sees herself in a different role. The Rough Riders have had a busy summer before their official practice began in August.

Last season, the Roughies finished with an overall 5-14-1 record, but Bass was part of a unit that made the district playoffs for the third consecutive season. Catty’s season ended with a 4-1 loss to Pen Argyl in the opening round of the district Class A tournament.

“The summer is going great,” beamed Bass. “Catty field hockey is definitely going to take a step up this year while during the summer. We have speed and agility practices as well as strengthening practices also including actual field hockey practice as well as summer league games.”

She has taken a different approach this summer.

“This year, I definitely see myself stepping into the role of a big sister,” added Bass. “I want to be there for all the incoming freshmen as well as the underclassmen who I have played with before.”

Head coach Amanda Freiler has watched Bass’s dedication to her position, and has watched her evolve into a steady and consistent performer.

“She’s a dedicated player who has fully committed to the position of goalie,” boasted Freiler. “Since her freshman year, she has done whatever she can to try and make herself better. She’s joined club teams, attended camps and clinics, and works all year round. She’s a great leader on the field and very vocal.”

Leading up to the season, Bass planned to make the most of her summer experience. She will attend Lebanon Valley College next fall to continue her field hockey career and major in elementary education.

“Unfortunately, we aren’t working with any youth groups this summer,” said Freiler. “But we are still having a lot of fun and learning a lot this summer as a team.”