When a group of seniors has donned cleats and shin guards for the final time, all that is left is the legacy that they leave behind. Memories of wins, losses and goals scored may fade, but the contributions made to the team as a unit will last for years.
For the 2006 class of Virginia field hockey players, this legacy is one characterized by hard work, determination and resiliency.
"Their class really helped change the climate for our team," Virginia coach Jess Wilk said. "You don't see that in the win-loss record. But if you are around our team everyday, you see the difference that they've made, and the impact that they've had."
Seven players will graduate this year, five of whom will move on to life after the Turf Field. Allie Flynn, Sarah Miller, Katie Phillips, Dana Anderson, and Lindsey Selfridge each played their final career game in College Park last weekend. Redshirt juniors Biffy Cornelison and Katherine Blair will return for their final year of eligibility.
The careers of the class of 2006 were marked by struggles against ACC competition, as they managed only one win in conference, a 1-0 victory against UNC in 2002. But Wilk was quick to caution observers from downplaying the talents and abilities of the group.
"I wish that they had something more tangible to look at and see," Wilk said. "Unfortunately, I think the tangible results are going to happen next year, and I hope that they will very much feel a part of that."
That is not to say the departing class is without its accomplishments. Phillips, who ventured to Charlottesville from Fort Worth, Tex., notched 35 career goals, tying her for 10th all-time on the Virginia career goals record. Her 83 career points place her 11th all-time on the Cavaliers' scoring record. Phillips played in 78 games, starting 75 of them. Not far behind her is Flynn, who tallied 30 goals and 72 points in 74 total games. Miller, a midfielder, and Anderson, a defender, did not post gaudy statistics, but their contributions setting up Phillips and others while also leading the defense should not go unnoticed. Selfridge put up 11 points in 39 total games.
Miller, though, does not think the class will be characterized by its accomplishments on paper.
The class has "very strong character and very good leadership skills," she said. "I think that really helped the team out, having a lot of different leaders and role models. As I look at the class I'm going out with, I have a lot of respect for who they are and what they've done."
In its four years, the group amassed a record of 37-41. Always on the verge of becoming a force in the ACC, this group came together under adversity, and demonstrated impressive commitment to each other and the team.
"On and off the field they led by example," Wilk said. "They set a great tone for us. They were very good at making the first years feel welcome right away. Their work ethic is second to none."
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