WESTWOOD—More than 30 girls in grades 4–8 from Westwood, Washington Township, and nearby communities participated in this year’s Westwood Recreation Department’s girls field hockey program, which was led by coach Colleen Brace and coordinated by parent volunteer Jen Hivry. Local high school field hockey players Madilyn Goldman and Mary Affinito assisted in coaching. The season wrapped up with a final game for the grade 6–8 team against Ramsey.
This year, the program bids farewell to its graduating 8th grade players: Taylor Ahrens, Gabrielle Greco, Eve Hegarty, Emily Hivry, Dylann Ivey, Ava Kida, Molly Klemm, Zoe Laoudis Rosenstein, Erin McDevitt, Madison Perry, Taryn Robitaille, and Jorgi Thompson.
The 4th and 5th graders participated in a clinic-style program led by parent volunteer Dee Kalman, where they learned fundamental skills like stick handling, dribbling, passing, and shooting. Weekly scrimmages allowed them to practice game play as they progress in the program.
The Westwood Recreation Girls Field Hockey Program operates as a rec/travel combination, focusing on skill development and inclusive play. Competing in the Northern New Jersey Field Hockey League, the teams play against others from Bergen, Passaic, Essex, and eastern Morris counties, though no standings or playoffs are held.
The program accepts players on a first-come, first-served basis and is open to new players. Many participants are first-time field hockey players. For questions or more information, email CardinalsFH@yahoo.com. Registration for the 2025 season opens in May.
Details on all Westwood Recreation programs are available at westwoodnj.gov/recreation. Residents and participants can stay informed on new classes and updates via email announcements and @westwoodnjrec on Facebook and Instagram.
— Via Westwood Recreation Director Gary Buchheister