Hawks field hockey team enthusiastic for big season

The Waltham High School field hockey squad had a nice year in 2024, concluding with a strong 6-6-4 record and a berth in the MIAA Division 1 state tournament.

The Hawks were shut down by Natick High School by a score of 3-0 in the Round of 32, but are heading into this fall retooled and ready to build on last season’s experience. Waltham’s entire starting defense is returning, a component that proved to be an anchor throughout the previous autumn.

“We are just trying to build off of last year,” head coach Taylor Scafidi said. “I am looking forward to seeing who steps up so we can keep what we had going.”

Waltham will be spearheaded by centerback Miyana Bahl. The captain received experience playing at every position on the field before settling nicely into her role as the de facto leader of the field.

“She finally found her home back there,” Scafidi said. “That is pretty much the quarterback of field hockey. I am really looking forward to seeing her and where she shines.”

The Hawks will also be looking for a big year from senior midfielder Juliana Fry. The three-sport athlete has been on the varsity all four years of her career.

“She is gritty, hardworking and just very skilled,” Scafidi said. “That is very exciting.”

At the forward spot, Waltham will feature another four-year contributor in Jenna Mahoney.

“I am looking forward to seeing Jenna break out and shine,” said Scafidi. “She is also a captain and we have a really good group of leaders on the field in starting positions for us. I can’t wait to see them.”

The net will be minded by junior goalie Nina Joannidis.

“She’s just an awesome player and person,” Scafidi said. “I’m excited to have her with us playing full time this year. Nina has not always had the opportunity to step in for us as we have always had goalies who were older than her. She has already proven in practice this week how excited she is and how she is willing to step into places that we need her in. Her energy is contagious.”

The group has been working on instilling a winning mentality as preseason practices have gotten underway.

“Just understanding that nothing is given and everything is earned,” Scafidi said. “We have really been talking about how we need goal-scorers this year. That is somewhere we are lacking because of players graduating. We have really been harping on who wants to put the ball in the back of the net and be that leader for us. There have already been so many people stepping into those roles which is exciting. Just that winning mentality.”