(Photo by Frank Wojciechowski) caption: COLE POWER: Princeton Day School girls’ hockey player Zeeza Cole heads to goal in recent action. Sophomore forward Cole’s offensive production has helped PDS go 7-4-4. The Panthers wrap up their season this week by hosting Lansdale Catholic (Pa.) on February 10 in a regular season game and then taking part in the WIHLMA (Women’s Interscholastic Hockey League of the Mid-Atlantic) playoffs this weekend at Rye Country Day School.

Culminating Season With a Flurry of Games, PDS Girls’ Hockey Shooting for Big Finish

Bill Alden

Kat Smithson likes the commitment she has seen from each of her players on the Princeton Day School girls’ hockey team throughout the season.

“A personal goal for each player has been to recognize their weaknesses and play to their strengths,” said PDS head coach Smithson. “They have each worked to become a stronger player and contribute more to the team.”

Smithson is hoping that work will pay off this week as the Panthers culminate the season with a flurry of games.

On Monday, the Panthers tied Portledge School (N.Y.) 0-0 to move to 7-4-4 on the season. PDS was then slated to wrap up the regular season by playing at Summit High on February 8 and hosting Lansdale Catholic (Pa.) on February 10.

After that, the Panthers head into the WIHLMA (Women’s Interscholastic Hockey League of the Mid-Atlantic) playoffs this weekend at Rye Country Day School.

As Smithson reflects on her team’s big week, she is confident her players will exercise the discipline needed to handle being so busy.

“We need to be focused and really sharp; we are working with Luke [Athletic Trainer Luke Hensel] on keeping them properly fed and rested so they have enough energy,” said Smithson.

“We are going to have light practices focusing on shooting, mental exercises, visualization, and team bonding. They know how important the next week is; they are ready to meet the challenge. They need to do homework done on time and get their rest and they have put together a plan.”

While PDS fell 3-0 last Friday to Rye Country Day School, Smithson believes the way her team played in that contest bodes well for the challenges ahead.

“We held them to one goal a period; that was huge because in the past they have dominated in the offensive end,” said Smithson.

“We were able to get as many shots (26-27) and defensively we remained strong and focused. It was a big step forward. In years past we went into the game already mentally defeated. In the last two games, we were focused and mentally ready and rose to the occasion.”

The Panthers do need to raise the level of their game offensively. “We do need to work on offense; we had a lot of opportunities against Rye but we didn’t finish,” acknowledged Smithson. “We need to be stronger on offense, finishing plays and connecting on passes.”

In Smithson’s view, her squad is primed for a strong finish. “There is no holding back, they want no regrets and no reservations,” said Smithson, whose team currently stands fourth in the WIHLMA standings and is in line to qualify for the league tournament’s ‘A’ bracket.

“They will be playing with every ounce of energy. The girls recognize the situation we are in. They have been doing dry land training twice a week, working on weights. They are preparing for battle and coming together as a team.”

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