The AWHS girls varsity field hockey team came into their second game against Redwood High School on Friday, Oct. 22 with optimism and determination, hoping to better their 0-12 regular season record. However, the Falcons’ second game against the Redwood Giants resulted in another loss, making their record now 0-13.

In the Falcons’ first game against the Giants this season, they lost 7-0. With many AWHS players new to the sport of field hockey, AWHS senior and field hockey player Jada Shore expected the loss. Yet, this game inspired the team to learn from their mistakes. 

“Last time we played Redwood, we only had one or two practices under our belt and didn’t know any of the rules. We’ve had a whole season now and are ready to come back and be better than they expected,” Jada said.

After the first half of the Oct. 22 game, the Giants led 4-0. Throughout the game, the Giants kept the ball on the Falcons’ side of the pitch. AWHS defenders were busy blocking and defending their goal for most of the game, while the offensive players remained optimistic for a pass that would lead to a break-away goal.

Jessie Gauna, AWHS junior and goalie, blocked more than 10 shots on goal throughout the game. The Giants pressured Jessie and the team each minute of the game, leaving the Falcons with minimal rest.

In the second half of the game, AWHS upped their defense, allowing Redwood to only score two more goals. The final score was 6-0, an improvement from their first game against Redwood. 

“We’ve played some of the best field hockey we’ve ever played today against the best team in the league: Redwood,” said AWHS girls varsity field hockey coach Alex Gauna.

According to Gauna, the AWHS field hockey team focuses on improvement more than scoring points. Although the Falcons couldn’t manage to pull out a win, their perseverance and mental fortitude were all that mattered to Gauna.

“[The AWHS players] never quit on each other or themselves. They fought right through to the very end,” Gauna said.

Despite a loss, the Falcons felt proud of their effort and performance. They are excited for their final game, next Wednesday, Oct. 27 against Convent of the Sacred Heart, for senior night at Red Hill Field.