Westfield goalies Jess Hale, left, and Karly Mastello, right, run through some drills near the goalie box. (Photo by Chris Putz)
WESTFIELD – Two seasons ago, the Westfield High School field hockey team won just two games in an 18-game season. Last year, Westfield finished 6-11-1.
Now, in her third season as the team’s head coach, Karen Gomez and the Bombers’ field hockey squad are poised for bigger, better things.
“We’re looking for Western Mass., and a .500 or better record,” Gomez said, as players from the varsity and junior varsity teams rounded the inside of the fence during a run prior to practice Monday. “But it’s going to be tough.”
PVIAC South Division foes Longmeadow, Agawam, and Minnechaug are each likely roadblocks standing in the way of Westfield. But an even greater hurdle may be overcoming themselves.
“We need to get the ball in the net to score, but we’re not known as a scoring team,” said Gomez, whose Bombers laid some goose eggs on the scoreboard several times over the last two seasons. “But we’re improving on scoring, and we’ve got some great senior leadership.”
Senior captains Jordan Swift and Alex Afeldt return at the forward positions to help bolster the offensive front. Swift, who had 11 goals and 5 assists in 2011, has led the team in offense each of the last two seasons.
Afeldt brings a level of consistency that is tough to match.
Together, with a quick rising up-and-comer, Lexi Minicucci , one of the JV teams’ most electric player over the last two years; and senior Mary Boudreau – another experienced forward, the offense is nearly assured of more goals in ’12.
Junior midfielder Ashlee Owen is expected to lock down the middle of the field.
“I’m hoping for her to lead the midfielders,” Gomez said. “I’m also looking for her to work with the wings.”
The goalie position will take a bit of teamwork as senior returnee Jess Hale (156 career saves) will be paired with sophomore Karly Mastello (31 saves last season).
“Jess has good communication skills … and Karly has excellent footwork,” Gomez said in describing his dual threat in net.
Both goalies are expected to share playing time in goal to begin the season, according to the head coach.
A partnership has already emerged within the program as Gomez and junior varsity head coach Linda Rowbotham run one combined practice. Every freshman and sophomore is working alongside upperclassmen in warm-up routines, drills, and such.
The coaching staff also credited Westfield Parks & Recreation director Jim Blascak with providing a strong feeder program, bridging the gap between the high and elementary school years.
“Now I can look down to the JV and know I’ll need you, you, and you to bring up to varsity,” Gomez said.
Notes: Former Bomber Becca Hardy is a volunteer coach.
