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11/15/2023 10:43 AMThe Old Saybrook field hockey team had a successful 2023 season, landing a spot in the Class S State Tournament and making it all the way to the quarterfinals. One of the biggest reasons for the Rams’ success on the turf this fall was the efforts of sophomore sensation Kendall Dobratz, who has made the most of her short two years in an Old Saybrook uniform.
The sophomore center midfielder has been playing field hockey since she was in sixth grade, and upon entering high school, immediately earned a spot on the varsity roster as a freshman. Kendall enjoys the versatility and playing ability she gains from having to be involved in both offense and defense.
“I started playing field hockey when I was a sixth grader at the Foote School in New Haven. I had to take a year off due to Covid, and then began playing here at Old Saybrook High School last year,” says Kendall. “I play center midfield and have always played this position. I like being able to play both offense and defense, and be involved in virtually every play I can. At this position, I also take a majority of the free hits, which I like.”
Kendall, who earned Second Team All-Shoreline honors in her debut field hockey campaign a year ago, has also been playing ice hockey since she was 7 years old. She enjoys locking in on the ice in the winter for the Connecticut Polar Bears and the Daniel Hand co op team. She also plays lacrosse in the spring for the Rams.
As a sophomore superstar with a lot of raw talent and ability, Kendall currently leads the Rams in points on the season with 17 goals and 15 assists, good enough for third in points in the Shoreline Conference. Old Saybrook field hockey Head Coach Nancy Gatta describes Kendall as a true leader on the field, and someone who is constantly in control of the offense.
“It is rare to have a freshman come in and be such an impact player in their first season. But Kendall did that for us in her freshman year. We played her at the center midfield position, which is essentially the quarterback of the team. She is in control in the midfield and sets up so much of our offense,” says Gatta. “The combination of Kendall and our two top scoring forwards, Ayla D'Anna and Amelia Sigersmith, has been key to our success this season.”
In addition to making an impact on her team, Kendall was also named to the 2023 All-Shoreline Conference First Team as a result of her efforts. Gatta explains that her willingness to seek and accept feedback is the primary reason for Kendall’s continued accolades.
“When I met Kendall during preseason in her freshman year, I knew she had something special about her. It was clear that she was naturally athletic and had a great work ethic,” Gatta said. “Kendall is extremely coachable, and she wants to learn about the game and improve her skills each time she is on the field. There was one day at the very end of one of our practices that I saw something that Kendall could try and it could help her in her game. The very next day at our game, she did the exact thing I briefly showed her, and has now made this a skill she does regularly. This is just one example of how coachable she is. It doesn't take the constant repeating of drills or instructions to have her learn a skill or develop a game strategy.”
Not only is Kendall an impactful player on the field, but she also makes a difference off of it by being a good role model for others with her work ethic and always wanting to give 100% effort.
“This season I have been able to lead my team by showing up for every game prepared and ready to do my best. I try to set the best example I can for all of my teammates on and off the field,” says Kendall. “I make sure to listen to the feedback my coaches give me, and then lead my team through their words.”
First stepping into the high school scene for any sport can prove to be a challenging transition, but Gatta shares that Kendall took the increased intensity in stride, embracing every moment that came to her on the field hockey circuit.
“If Kendall has faced any challenges, it could possibly be that as a freshman there was a lot of responsibility put on her shoulders. This could be a lot for any player, no matter the age or grade,” says Gatta. “But, if you were to ask Kendall if she feels this was a challenge, she will tell you no. She thrives on being challenged and she loves competing. Her strong will and determination help those around her, and helps to build their confidence.”
As Kendall looks ahead to her junior campaign with her teammates, she hopes to continue to grow as a player, and also fill more of a leadership role on the roster.
“While I am sad to see our three strong seniors graduate, I know we have a solid group of returning players that I love playing with,” says Kendall. “I am hoping that next year I can take on more of a leadership role, and maybe even become a captain.”