Senior Patty A. Signs On to Play Field Hockey at Sewanee

Playing at the NCAA Division III level is a unique opportunity. It combines a high level of competition with a true emphasis on the student-athlete experience. Patty will continue to grow as a player and develop as a student, a leader, and a person. Balancing academics and athletics at the collegiate level is no small feat, and we know she is up for the challenge.

Patty’s field hockey journey began in the first grade. She had an old wooden stick and learned basic skills in her P.E. class. She was hooked; she loved it from day one. It was even more important to her because her late aunt played defense in high school and she wanted to be connected to her. So Patty followed in her defense-focused footsteps — she was a natural, a Foxcroft defender her entire career.

When asked what her favorite memory was, Patty said it was playing freshman year, when it was pouring rain, 6:30pm, and dark. The Foxcroft vultures were flying over the turf and COVID masks were on. Everyone was slipping and sliding but they were determined to practice their corners. She was soaked to the bone but after peeling her shin guards off, she realized she was so in love with the sport, and she would do it all again every day if she could. 

Patty loves the friendships she has formed through the sport and is grateful to all the teammates who have supported her. She is also proud of herself and all that she has accomplished, saying she won't be done until she takes off her cleats for the last time… maybe we can convince her to come back and coach with us then. 

Patty has been an integral part of the field hockey program here at Foxcroft, and her path is the embodiment of what happens when talent meets determination. From her early days on the field, it was clear that she had a spark and was driven to succeed no matter what. Her commitment to the sport, her teammates, and her growth have been so much fun to be a part of.

Her accomplishments on and off the field speak volumes about her character. As a brand new 9th grader, on the first day of varsity practice, she was bubbling with excitement because she was on a team again… add field hockey to that mix and she could barely stand still. That bubbling excitement for her team and all they could accomplish together never subsided. She worked hard to improve her game but even more importantly worked with younger teammates to make them feel comfortable, hone a skill, or just lift their spirits when needed. She was always game for anything, team bonding, a silly game, or an intense practice — all received 100%. As an outstanding player and captain she was celebrated by the conference with First Team honors multiple years in a row, Second Team All-State as a junior, and received First Team All-State honors this year. 

These moments remind us that success isn’t just about the goals scored or the games won — it’s about the effort, the teamwork, and the resilience shown along the way.

Patty has flourished here due to the many people in this caring and wonderful Foxcroft community. There are so many of you who helped her become this amazing young woman who is sitting here: her coaches, teachers, teammates, friends, and most importantly, her family. She couldn’t have done it without all of you. 

Her new field hockey coach, Coach Andrews, says, “At Sewanee Field Hockey, we are thrilled to add Patty to our roster in 2025. While Patty's athleticism is what sparked our interest, it was her work ethic and happy disposition that broadened her appeal. We are very confident that we will continue our growth and have a strong run to championships with Patty on the field next fall!”

Coach Andrews and the Tigers are getting someone with outstanding character, a team player, a stellar athlete, and someone who truly loves the game and who is the fiercest of competitors. Patty, you have been such a wonderful part of our Foxcroft community and have been such a delight to us in so many ways. We are so happy for you and are thrilled that we can be here as part of your special day as you get ready to play field hockey for the Tigers. We have no doubt that you will make an incredible impact at Sewanee on and off the field, and look forward to following your career. We wish you the best of luck as you begin this exciting new chapter. Your hard work has paid off, and we can’t wait to see all that you will achieve! Congratulations!

From Director of Athletics Michelle Woodruff