Shana Carey

Opinions Editor and Marketing Editor

Cheers echoed throughout Spring Grove as the field hockey team celebrated Coach Carol Gillmen’s 300th win Wednesday, Oct. 7.

The team painted a poster to run through, signed a framed picture for Coach Gillmen, and wore matching yellow shirts to honor their coach’s hard work. According to Coach Gillmen, this was a pleasant surprise. 

“That’s what people want,” Coach Gillmen said. “They want to work hard, be successful, and have fun.”

The lions earned that 300th win 4-1 against Spring Grove with their strategic and balanced offense. Kennedy Bratton, Hannah Downs, and Paige Griffin all scored that Wednesday night. 

“Emma Waltemyer did a great job getting the ball off to her offense and trying to control her midfield,” Coach Gillmen said.

Though single players score a goal, Coach Gillmen emphasizes teamwork both on and off the field.

“One of the things we try to preach is that we’re going to be there for each other as a team,” Coach Gillmen said.

Her players notice her drive to meet the challenge. “Coach Gillmen is dedicated to what she does,” junior JV player Bryn Hughes said.  “She’s in it to win it.”

Coach Gillmen started coaching at Red Lion in 1995 and says the time has flown by. She remembers former players.

“Over the years, there have been some really awesome families and athletes in the program.” she said. “It’s been really cool to hear from them, saying they have a lot of good, fond memories from playing field hockey.” 

Having passion for the sport is vital to being a good player or coach. “Being an athlete is not an easy job,” Gillmen said. “Dedication and perseverance are needed to be successful,” Gillmen said.

The 300th win milestone gave Gillmen reason to reflect on her career as both a teacher and a coach.

“I’ve been very fortunate to be at Red Lion School District, teaching and coaching and (having) a lot of support over the years from the administration and the community,” Gillmen said. “I wouldn’t want to do it anywhere else.”