Cherry Hill West field hockey season preview
Last season: Cherry Hill West went 1–20 in 2016, with their lone win coming against Winslow on Oct. 21. The Lions qualified for the postseason, but lost in the opening round, 3–1, against Central Regional High School.
Returning players: Senior Shannon Meloche led the Lions with five goals last year and will be back to anchor the forwards this year. Joining her up front will be junior Paige Tambussi and sophomore Gabriella Huegal. Seniors Julia Clancy and Kerriann Dignan return to the midfield, while senior Kylie Judge will lead the backs.
New players to watch: The Lions have a pair of strong players moving up in freshman midfielder Isabella Sylvester and sophomore goalkeeper Gina Bellon.
Key games: Cherry Hill West’s last scheduled game of the regular season will be against crosstown rival Cherry Hill East on Oct. 26. The two schools have played tight, competitive games over the past few seasons.
Season outlook: Beth Coffey has taken over as head coach of Cherry Hill West field hockey after previously coaching at Haverford High School in Pennsylvania and West Deptford High School. She feels this year’s team has great leadership thanks to a strong senior class and believes the team is eager to tally a bunch of wins in 2017.
