Enjoying their friendships off the field has resulted in enjoyment on the field.
That sums up the undefeated Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School field hockey team that has soared to a 6-0 record this fall season.
Kendall Skakum, an 8th Grader who stars as the Middle School’s center midfielder, explained the camaraderie that exists away from the school and is carried over to the grass field located on the side of the building.
“We are doing so well because we jell together and it's because we are friends outside,” Kendall revealed. “Being all friends, that helps with our bonding on the team.”
Melanie Balla, a fellow 8th Grader who is another mainstay on the club from her right midfield position, agreed with her teammate—and friend, Kendall.
“We have such a good mindset and that is why we put in our best effort,” Melanie said.
Bridgewater-Raritan improved to 6-0 when these Middle School Panthers roared past Franklin Middle School, 11-0, on Wednesday, October 1, in Bridgewater.
Their ability to work—and win—as a team has earned the admiration of two staff members who must also be commended for this undefeated start.
And they are friends, too.
Danielle Curcio and Keri Schultz are both Health and Physical Education Teachers at the Middle School, and they, too, have teamed up to successfully call the shots for this unbeaten squad.
And, of course, they partnered up to provide a comment regarding the reasons behind this unblemished record.
“We couldn't be prouder of our Middle School field hockey team for an incredible 6-0 undefeated season so far! The girls have shown heart, hustle, and true teamwork every step of the way. We’re so proud of what they’ve accomplished together, undefeated on the field, and united as a team,” the two coaches said.
The team is composed of a solid balance between the older and younger players.
Kendall and Melanie are joined by 8th Grade classmates Brielle Aragon, Brianna Bao, Adhvika Chandrasekhar, Hannah Gall, Sloane Mickus, Samaya Patel and Sadie Saraceno.
The future looks bright with a sound group of 7th Grade players.
They are Harper Bukowsky, Shaked Chazin, Kaylee Evancho, Madelyn Fry, Sara Hershkowitz, Savannah Ordino and Avery Shurina.
This group will seek to improve to 7-0 on the season when Bridgewater-Raritan travels to Califon to meet the Woodglen Middle School on Monday, October 6.
Kendall shared the attitude of this team once school began.
“We were confident going into the year,” she said.
She concluded.
“It is great that we all like each other. Everyone is so sweet.”
A 6-0 record is sweet, too.