There are only two high school field hockey teams in District 3 that have undefeated records – Boiling Springs and Susquehannock.
The Bubblers do one better, though: every game has been a shutout.
Boiling Springs plays Greenwood Thursday, Oct. 6. It will be the team’s biggest out-of-conference test thus far.
Even in goals scored, it’s tremendous what Boiling Springs has accomplished. They have landed 90 goals. Susquehannock, in YAIAA, has scored 80.
Boiling Springs is ranked No. 2 in 1A. And Susquehannock is also No. 2 in 2A.
Greenwood, however, is lurking in the background. The Wildcats are No. 3 in 1A right behind the Bubblers and hold a 12-1 record.
“They are excited to have good competition and continue to showcase their hard work and efforts,” Boiling Springs Head Coach Kortney Showers said. “Greenwood is no stranger to our stadium, so the girls know they’re a skillful team and are not thrown off by their ranking. I have so much confidence in these girls, but there are so many factors that go into each game. If we play the way we’ve been playing, it will be a great game to watch.”
When asked his thoughts about the matchup, Greenwood’s Head Coach Kent Houser said chuckling, “We’re going to have to play really well.”
“Our kids know each other pretty well,” he said. “We’ve played a lot against each other in the past. Some play against each other in club and some play with each other in club. We’re well aware of what we’re going into.”
Both teams are rich in experience. Ten of Boiling Springs starters are seniors. Greenwood’s starting nine.
The Wildcats have scored 71 goals on the season.
“We’re having a little trouble scoring more so than in the past,” Houser said. “We’re still trying to work some things out there. We’re really pleased with our defensive play when the ball has been in our defensive circle.”
He predicts in Greenwood’s game against the Bubblers, “We’re going to do a better job in the offensive circle.”
Boiling Springs could have a slight advantage considering they aren’t playing back-to-back games. Greenwood’s schedule worked out that way.
“We would’ve liked a day to practice, to prepare a little bit more,” Houser said. “It’s a good group that’s played together for a long time. Not only are there nine seniors playing, but I think pretty much all of them have played together last year. I don’t do much to try to motivate them. If they aren’t motivated for (today’s game), then there’s something wrong.”
Mental prep is part of Boiling Springs’ strategy. Showers said she feels the “hype” going into the contest.
“We typically adjust some ways we attack and defend depending on who we play, and Greenwood is no exception,” she said.
The Bubblers and the Wildcats have college committed players on their teams. Their leadership is going play a part in the outcome of today’s game.
“That’s always our philosophy: work hard and play hard and try our best,” Houser said. “That’s all we can ask for. The winning takes care of itself.”
Showers said her seniors have “really taken the reigns on and off the field.” She and her coaches are “loving every minute of it.” They are working to make sure that the “girls know to enjoy every single game and every single minute,” she said.
Greenwood plays at Boiling Springs Thursday Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
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