 |  |
Keene State field hockey team holds clinic for local schools
KEENE, N.H., 9/13/10 – The Keene State College field hockey went back to basics on Saturday.
Prior to playing their first Little East Conference game of the season against Eastern Conn. State, the Owls held a clinic for teams from Keene High School, Monadnock Regional, John Stark, and Milford.
After going through a few warm-up games, it was time for the high school players to grab their sticks and get to their stations.
Keene State coach Amy Watson and her assistants Carole Kinsella, Morgan Rein, and Allie Franklin assigned players to different areas of the field where they could work on offensive, defensive, and passing skills. “We also set up a small game, where they could incorporate everything they’ve done,” said Watson. “It’s nice to get high school players out on the turf because they can actually execute things they’re trying to do. Sometimes on the grass, they get frustrated.”
Eager to improve their skills, the high school players listened intently as Owl players and coaches demonstrated proper techniques.
“I’m really enjoying it,” said Amanda Stubbs, a three-year member of the Keene High team. “I don’t have to stress that much about impressing people. I like how I can work on my shooting, dribbling, and block tackles.
“It’s good to be around college players. You can learn a lot because they have more experience,” said Kirsten Miller, a freshman from John Stark.
Michelle Tiani, a former Owl player and current KHS coach says clinics provide an opportunity for players to receive invaluable instruction. “It’s a chance for them to work on individual skills, so they can take their game to the next level,” she said.
Conversely, the clinic allows the Keene State players the opportunity to pass along tips and strategy they’ve picked up over the years. “It’s great to get out with these girls and teach them some skills that will hopefully improve their game,” said Leigh Smith (Sanborton), a senior defender for the Owls. “I wish I had the chance to go to a clinic like this when I was younger.”
“The end result of the clinic is having the high school players take what they’ve learned back to their teams and just be enthusiastic about the sport,” said Watson.
Practicing what they preached following the clinic, Keene State posted a 2-0 shutout victory over Eastern Conn.
