If there is one thing Pete Tonsoline has learned during his 36 years with the Iroquois High School field hockey program it is that there is no such thing as a lock on success.
That regular season success doesn’t automatically translate to post season glory.
“No matter what you do during the regular season, the playoffs are completely unpredictable,” said Tonsoline, who will be entering his 26th season as the Lady Chiefs head coach.
Graduation hit the Chiefs hard as they lost five key players who have all gone on to play college field hockey; Taylor Quinlan who is playing for DI University at Buffalo and Holly Stiller who is at Slippery Rock.
But the talent pool is far from dry as the Chiefs return a cast of players who have seen success. More than experiencing success this group also has to learn to come back from emotional adversity after Williamsville North ended their string of 35 consecutive wins against ECIC opponents.
As they go into the new season the focus remains on their high expectations.
“To continue the high standard, tradition, and excellence of the Iroquois field hockey program,” said Tonsoline.
The Chiefs will have a strong mix of seniors and juniors who will be counted on to help maintain that excellence. Leading the way will be co-captains Riley DeGrace and Ella Sturm, who are both forwards. Last season, DeGrace became the new career and single season leader in assists.
Along with senior midfielder Mya Braun and junior forward Liz Fonfara.
Iroquois will have a strong supporting cast including Juniors Maddie Kasten and Ava D’Amato who will control the midfield.
Things are also looking good on the backend for some time to come as a skilled collection of juniors Nancy Pham, Lylah Jolls, Madison Trzepacz make up the heart of the defensive unit. Senior Tori Walker also returns to the backend, while juniors Maria Gorski and Megan Quinn are among the new faces on defense who are up from JV.
A strong defense will be essential for the Chiefs as goalies Madison Miranda (sophomore) and Hayden Herbold are also new to varsity.
Jillian Quinn (mid) and Quinn Wierzkowski (F) are two more junior newcomers coming up through the system.
The Chiefs had a busy off season as the varsity squad played in tournaments at Nichols School, East Rochester, Penfield and Fairport; while JV tested their skills in the Pittsford-Sutherland Tournament.
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