From Ice to Turf: Field Hockey’s New Goalie

Since her freshman year, She­nae Lundberg ’11 has established herself as an accomplished goal­tender on the ice.

Now, behind the same dis­tinctive green, white, and gold facemask that serves her on the ice, Lundberg looks out at an un­familiar scene-the field hockey turf.

Last year, Lundberg was ap­proached by field hockey coach Kimberly Wright and asked if she would be interested in bring­ing her goaltending talents to the girls’ varsity field hockey team.

“I just wanted to contribute to Deerfield where I could,” said Lundberg. And with her deci­sion to join the team, she has done just that.

In the opening four games of the season, Lundberg has only relinquished five goals, support­ed the team to a 2-2 record, and made history in the process.

In a 2-0 loss to Hotchkiss and only her third game as a field hockey goalie, Lundberg tied a Deerfield record with a 21-save performance.

Although her strong perfor­mances so far may suggest oth­erwise, Lundberg is still adjusting to the new sport.

“The only real similarity be­tween ice hockey and field hock­ey,” Lundberg joked, “is the word ‘hockey.’ ”

A fundamental difference that Lundberg admits to have initially struggled with is the fact that field hockey goalies can’t drop to the ground and slide-an integral part of the ice hockey goalie’s arsenal.

Dr. Wright said, “Adjusting to the difference in pads and kickers instead of skates was a bit chal­lenging.”

Despite these differences, Lundberg has managed to gener­ate plenty of success from a few sources.

“I feel that I’ve been able to figure out my angles well and get good positioning on shooters,” she explained.

Dr. Wright believes Lund­berg’s athletic experience has been beneficial.

“In elite level hockey, espe­cially internationally, the best ath­letes play goalkeeper. Shenae’s innate athleticism and uncanny timing have played a major part in her success so far,” explained Dr. Wright.

Lundberg feels that the team has played a crucial role in her adjustment.

“The team has been really supportive so far,” said Lund­berg. “Both the players and the coaches have been great in giv­ing me tips and being patient as I learn the rules.”

Lundberg has been essential to the spirit of the team.

Dr. Wright said, “Shenae is a wonderful team player who com­petes every day in every drill to make herself and her teammates stronger.”

From her athletic ability to her hard work, Lundberg has been able to contribute significantly to a completely new sport in just a short amount of time.

“I only wish,” reflected Dr. Wright, “I had the opportunity to have her on my team for more than just one season.”