EPHS CLUB GUIDE

Photo by Lydia Schwieters A fresh start for girls hockey

BY AMELIA DEWBERRY Girls hockey has seen a refresh this season, led by an entirely new coaching staff and a young roster. Senior captains Annabel Mehta and Paige Holt are optimistic that the changes will lead them to a more successful season. “I think that we are a lot better this year so I’m just excited to be successful,” stated Mehta. Four new varsity coaches have joined the team, led by head coach Steve Persian. Persian joins the Eagles after most recently coaching at Breck. The players feel the most notable change is that the new coaches care about them as people more. Mehta is relieved that they understand that “mistakes are made and life happens.” Holt agrees: “It’s been the best yet. And it’s only been like two weeks.” The Eagles’ roster includes 10 underclassmen who are also bringing new energy to the team. Mehta noted that the younger players have “really been hitting their stride” and are excited for their future. The new makeup of the team has shifted the Eagles toward a more positive team dynamic. Holt jokingly describes it as “organized chaos,” but everyone is “very happy to be there.” The girls are confi dent that their new attitudes, excitement, and willingness to work hard and support each other will carry them toward success. The Eagles were recently outfi tted with a new locker room to fi re them up for games and practices. Features include all-new fl ooring, higher ceilings, shower stalls, an ice machine, and wooden lockers to replace the existing metal ones. It’s completely branded with Eden Prairie logos and a large Eagles Hockey logo drop-down from the ceiling. The girls aim to win state and have outlined smaller steps along the way. They plan to score three goals every game. Holt explains, “That’s important to us because [. . .] when you score goals, you win games.” During practice, the team expects mutual respect and consistency. Every player committed to these goals by signing a paper that is framed and hung in the locker room. Eagles hockey currently stands at 3-5, with two big wins over Marshall and Chaska/Chanhassen, winning 4-1 and 9-1, respectively. They head into some big matchups in January, hoping to defeat Lake Conference rival Minnetonka and Holy Family on the path to state. Sophomore Lauren Pottinger leads the team in scoring with 10 points on the season. As the season begins, the combination of new leadership and young potential is reenergizing the Eagles.

DECEMBER 2022 | 33