Changing the Narrative: Pen Argyl Field Hockey Defeats Bangor After Eight Seasons
Changing the Narrative: Pen Argyl Field Hockey Defeats Bangor After Eight Seasons
Embedded Files
By Elliot Lorrah-Pfeifer
The rivalry between Bangor and Pen Argyl Area High School, known for its intensity, extends beyond football into every sport in which the schools compete.
The Pen Argyl Girls Varsity Field Hockey team was no exception, approaching every match against Bangor with determination. For nearly eight years, Pen Argyl struggled to secure a victory against their rivals. However, on August 29, 2024, the team ended the long-standing drought with a 1-0 victory over Bangor.
Photo Courtesy of Meghan Kutzler
Sophomore, Ella Bonatz, driving the ball up the field in hopes of scoring. Bonatz did or did not score.
Meghan Kutzler, head coach, described the atmosphere leading up to the game, as she noted that “the girls’ energy was high as expected.” Kutzler explained, “The girls went to win and did just that.”
Kaylie Hettel, senior forward, reflected on the team’s focus and unity before the game, as she stated, “On the way to the game, we were all focused on playing our best.”
Hettel highlighted the effective communication and shared energy within the team, “We were all communicating really well with each other. Our energy was contagious.”
Hettel scored Pen Argyl’s go-ahead goal, which ultimately secured the win.
Vanessa Garren, senior defense, spoke about the personal significance of the win, as she said, “The win over Bangor personally made me feel good about myself.”
She noted the increased pressure from Bangor’s aggressive play, “There was a lot more stress because Bangor came out more angry. But we, as a team, had to trust each other and work together, which helped us win.”
Grace Shenk, senior midfielder, conveyed the excitement leading into the match, stating, “Every year the girls are excited for the match against Bangor. This year our team had so much potential, and we were super hyped all around.” Before the game, Shenk said, “We knew going in we could give them a run for their money.”
Brooke Engler, senior forward, described the tough nature of the game, “The game was very tough, not only physically but mentally as well.”
She was surprised to learn about the eight-year winless streak, “We actually had no clue going into the match that we hadn’t beaten them for eight years. After learning this, it was simply amazing to us that we had pulled it off.”
Pen Argyl’s victory over Bangor marked the end of a significant losing streak and highlighted a moment of achievement for the team. The two foes were set to face each other again in early October, in which they tied 1-1. Neither team managed to score during the sudden death overtime, so both teams qualified for the District 11 playoffs.
Photo Courtesy of Elliot Lorrah-Pfeifer
The coaches and captains of each team meet at midfield to determine possession of the ball prior to the game. The Pen Argyl Girls Varsity Field Hockey team ended an eight year losing streak against the Bangor Slater with a satisfying 1-0 victory on August 29.
Page updated
Report abuse