Sep 07, 2022
Saint John Vianney Field Hockey Will Continue Winning Ways with Experienced Seniors
By Les Pierce
Senior forward Katarina Villa
The Saint John Vianney field hockey team has enjoyed much success over the years. However, there are just some seasons in which everything comes together for an outstanding campaign. Considering they have nine highly experienced seniors returning, this could be that special season for the Lancers.
The not-so-secret SJV weapon is forward Katarina Villa. The numbers tell the story; the Tufts-bound senior scored 32 goals and dished out 10 assists in 2021. She is just eight goals away from the career goals school record.
Villa was named to the All Shore Conference Second Team and the Shore Conference Coaches B North All Division Team last year.
Additional offense production is expected from Cat Schienvar (Sr. F), Fiona Drew (Sr. F/M), Amy Krakowski (Sr. F), Katerina Karendrikas (Sr. F), Anna Bearmore (Jr. F) and Kelly Trainor (So. M).
Schienvar scored 15 goals and was credited with nine assists in 2021. She was named to the Shore Conference Coaches B North All Division Team.
The SJV defense posted an amazing 11 shutouts last season. Tasked with continuing that trend are backfield specialists Katelyn Boyer (Sr. D), Olivia Militello (Sr. D) and Marissa Rivelli (Jr. D). Goalkeeper Taylor Schein posted 101 saves in 2021 and will return to the cage with the intention of exceeding that number in her senior season.
“I am especially excited about this upcoming season,” fifth-year Head Coach Amanda Westerweller said. “This senior class is special. Most of them have been with me since their freshman year, and they truly are the heart of the program. Many of them are committed to playing this sport year round. Their passion and dedication do not go unnoticed, and it is truly evident in the way that they play.
“While we have many seniors returning, we are looking for a few players to have their breakout year and contribute to fill in the key gaps we have across all lines. This includes junior Alexandra Cassella and sophomore Vivian Tardio.”
The Lancers went 12-7 last season and boast a 22-10 record over the past two years.
