Shannon KeoughHigh school field hockey was not an outlet for Caitlin Donahue, junior criminology major, to showcase her talent on the field. Seventh grade marked the beginning of Donahue’s field hockey career, but she does not consider her performance in middle school and high school as outstanding.
“I didn’t start until my senior year,” Donahue said. “I felt like I didn’t really get a chance to prove myself in high school.”
Donahue has been a positive asset to the lady Cavaliers field hockey team for three years as their dependable goalie.
However, Donahue was unexpectedly injured in the first game of the season against Rowan University.
With a torn medial collateral ligament, Donahue was forced to sit out the next four games.
Victoria King, freshman graphic design major, was the person who filled in wearing Donahue’s goalie gear.
“Victoria did not miss a beat,” Jackie Neary, the head field hockey coach, said.
“I called my family right away when I heard I was filling in for Cait,” King said. “I was freaking out because I was hoping I could be improving over the next two years while playing with Cait. But, she really was encouraging and helped me out a lot.”
Neary spoke similarly of Donahue.
“From day one, Caitlin has had a positive impact on this team,” Neary said. “She leads the team not by mouth, but she plays big and loud with her style.”
Donahue’s first experience with Neary was in high school at a rival game that scouts attended. According to Donahue, she felt her performance was awful. Her nerves got the best of her, or so she thought.
Neary felt differently. She said Donahue played very well, considering the team they were playing against.
Donahue decided to become a Cavalier because she felt the team was the right fit. Her experience of playing hockey for Cabrini has been a great way to meet friends and a nice escape.
“The game keeps my mind off of all my worries, except the game itself,” Donahue said. “It feels good to be back.”
Donahue, healed and blocking shots again, had a shutout her first game back against Immaculata. Donahue feels she is no luminary for her accomplishments this season.
“I wouldn’t say I proved myself,” Donahue said. “I think the team knew what I could do and everyone has had my back through all of this.”
Donahue continues to act as Cabrini’s barricade on the hockey turf. She plans to carry on her performance on the field.
“Caitlin is one of the best goalies in Cabrini’s history since I’ve been here,” Neary said. “She is highly respected by her team.”
