Field Hockey at Loudoun Valley has come a long way over the last few seasons full of struggles, new coaches and frustrating losses. However, the Vikings have rallied the last two years to make it to the district playoffs.

The 2020-2021 season showed a lot of promise for the team. The girls made it to the second round of the district playoffs. Last year, the team played an abbreviated schedule due to covid and game restrictions. They held their own and persevered during an unpredictable season.

After a 2-3 start to the season, the girls won seven games in a row. 

“Our season started a little rough, but we rallied toward  the middle of the season to win a string of games,” senior Carlea Dawson said. 

Dawson thought this year’s team had the best chance of making a playoff run. 

“Our biggest strength is our chemistry,” she said. “We have a very strong bond.” 

Team confidence grew after beating crosstown rival Woodgrove in a 5-0 shutout. It was the first time that Valley’s field hockey team beat Woodgrove in a number of years.

However, Loudoun County continued to cause them trouble on the field. County proved to be the girls’ most difficult opponent to overcome. 

“We had to play hard against County,” Dawson said.“They are always a strong opponent.”

Next season the team hopes to come back stronger than this year and shoot for another playoff run. 

Dawson has high praise for the team going forward, “We have a lot of young talent on the team and I know they will continue to improve each season.”