The Whitehall field hockey team enters this week with a 3-6 mark in the EPC and 5-8-1 overall as they look to make a push toward the playoffs.

But as head coach Gabi Smith points, there is more to the girls’ story than simply their record this season.

“While our record does not tell the entire story of our season, I am proud of the way this group has continued to compete, adjust, and grow through every challenge we have faced,” Smith said. “We have worked through different formations, lineups, field surfaces, and game situations while continuing to build our identity as a team.

“One area that has been a real strength for us is our offensive corner unit. They have developed the confidence to take quick shots on cage and, when the ball rebounds, work hard to win it back and create another opportunity. That persistence has created some strong offensive moments for us this season.”

While Smith and the girls maybe hoped for more wins at this point in the season, there have been some strong individual performances, as well as some overall growth.

Kerigan Dreisbach has provided a strong offensive presence as the leading goal scorer, while Ava Kneller has played a pivotal role in anchoring the defense, Smith pointed out.

“We have seen important individual contributions throughout the roster,” Smith said. “More importantly, I have seen growth across the entire team as players have stepped into new roles, developed confidence, and learned to rely on one another.

“Early in the season, we talked often about building connections across the field through communication, movement, and support. As the season has progressed, I have started to see more of those pieces come together, with the team moving and working more effectively as a unit.”

The girls are coming off a 3-3 tie with Moravian Academy.

The Zephs battle back three times to tie the score after falling behind. Frankie Rowley got Moravian Academy on the board first until Dreisbach tied the score at 1-1. Rowley would score again to make it 2-1, but back came the Zephs as Dreisbach made it 2-2. Jaclyn Jacobs gave MA a 3-2 lead before Shahd Momari scored to tied it gain, this time 3-3 on a pass from Zoe Bissinger.

“There is still work to do, but every game has given us another opportunity to learn and grow,” Smith said. “I am proud of the resilience this group has shown and the progress they have made throughout the season. As we finish the year, our focus will remain on continuing to build our connections, support one another, and make the most of every opportunity we have left together.

“The growth of this team has been something I am proud to watch, and I am excited to see how we continue to build on it.”