David Shutts

Kinkaid field hockey players Caroline Raynes, Nina Piazza, Ella Ou, Grace Essalih, and Harper Brown taking the field in all smiles ready to take on the St. Johns Mavericks.

It’s arguably the most important game of the regular season.

On a warm hot fall day, the Falcons, who are the No.18 ranked team in the Southwest Preparatory Conference, took on the No. 8 nationally ranked St. John’s Mavericks. 

The game took place on Thursday, Oct. 10 with both teams ready to head into battle on the field. 

However, this was not the first time these two teams have met this season. In the first game, St. John’s went home with the win over Kinkaid with a 2-0  score. 

Because of Kinkaid’s early season loss, the field hockey team was out for revenge, hoping to come home with a victory. 

“Us losing made us push harder in practices and in games, making us more determined to come back with more determination and drive next time we were on the field against them,” goalkeeper Merritt Skubisz said. 

Kinkaid started the game out strong, scoring within the first 3 minutes with a goal scored by defensive center mid Jackie O’Donnell. 

“I looked up and I couldn’t believe I had just scored. I immediately started jumping up and down, I was so happy,” O’Donnell said. “All my teammates were also celebrating, which really increased our energy for the rest of the game.” 

Kinkaids motivation was shown through their enthusiasm and electric energy on the field and on the sidelines because their initial goal created a large motivation and encouragement they could win.  

“I thought I was on the top of the world.” said Courtney Whittaker, right forward after the initial goal was scored. 

Kinkaid ended up scoring four more goals throughout the game, ultimately leading to a 5-1 victory against the Mavericks. 

“Overall it was an exciting win, and we are looking forward to hopefully playing them again in SPC.” said Skubisz.