CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - On Sunday afternoon at Contest Field, Bedford Katonah Youth Field Hockey hosted its final Play Day of the fall season. The event brought together players from third through eighth grade for friendly competition — with scores kept, but winning not the main goal.
“We’re trying to grow knowledge of the sport, teach, and make friends,” said John Jay Field Hockey coach Debbi Walsh, who also serves as director of the Bedford Katonah branch of the Northern Westchester Youth Field Hockey League.
Somers fourth grader Savi Pires already understands the spirit of the game. “If I’m close, I try to score,” said the center. “If someone is closer, I pass it.”
Across the field, Calliope Conking of IMES shared why she enjoys playing defense. “You get to hit the ball and run around,” said the third grader.
No matter the position, good sportsmanship is always emphasized. “We make sure the kids are positive in the way they interact with each other on and off the field,” said Somers coach Corinn Bahr.
Volunteers like Lakeland’s Jenna Yazzetti, a sectional champion, know that passing on passion is just as important as skills. “You want to make them love the sport as much as you do,” she said.
John Jay’s Cait Brennan, a former Play Day participant, agreed — even though her team has long been rivals with powerhouse Lakeland. “It’s very full circle,” Brennan said. “It feels good to give back. Debbie puts so much into the sport, so we love to give back to her.”
The young players clearly take inspiration from their mentors. IMES student Saig Almstead lit up when asked about her favorite player. “I want to be like Finja Degl,” she said.
Even the older middle schoolers look up to the high school athletes. “I love the way Gigi Santini hustles,” said a Lakeland eighth grader.
Lakeland’s Aditi Parambath remembers being in their shoes. Now a midfielder herself, she hopes to encourage confidence in the next generation. “I want to teach them not to be afraid to bring the ball up the field,” she said.
Sophomore Meaghan Heyde shares that same motivation. “When I did the Play Day, I looked up to the varsity players. It made me want to play for Lakeland, and I want to help bring that same dream to them.”
It may be years before these young athletes reach the varsity level — but thanks to Play Day, they’re already halfway there.
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