BY JAMIE HAZEL
Sports Editor
Junior Laila Vaughan scored her 73rd goal to break the school record for field hockey goals scored. The three-year varsity starter persevered through injury to hit this milestone with more than a season left in her high school career.
On October 22, the field hockey team competed in the first round of the Greater Middlesex County tournament and defeated Monroe 4-0. In the third quarter, Vaughan scored her 73rd goal. “If you told me this would happen back when I started in 6th grade, I would’ve never believed it,” explained Vaughan. “The moment was unreal, and I was so happy to be surrounded by people who support me every day and push me to be the best version of myself both on and off the field.”
This accomplishment brought momentum onto the field and two more goals quickly followed by junior Addison Albrecht. “Laila’s goals get the team more energized, and motivate the rest of us to work harder,” said junior Adrienne Cabrera, who has seven goals this season.
Addison Albrecht, who earned the titles First Team All Red-Division and First Team All-Conference, assisted on Laila’s record-breaking goal. “I’m proud of Laila for making history and it was great to be a part of,” shared Albrecht, who also scored a hat trick in the game.
Vaughan battled injury the entire summer, resulting in restrictions, such as going in the game in only short intervals. The doctor’s orders held her back from even stepping foot on the field in the third game of the season; these restrictions and discomfort did not hold Vaughan back. “After being injured in the beginning of the season, I knew it was going to be rough coming back, but with the help of coaches and teammates, I did it!” exclaimed Vaughan.
During the 2021 season, Vaughan’s 8th grade year, the team scored a total of 12 goals. The following year, as a freshman, Vaughan personally scored 20 goals. “Freshman year, I believe I set a strong base towards my field hockey career. Having such a successful freshman year and leading the team made me more confident for the years following,” said Vaughan.
As a sophomore, Vaughan hit 100 career points and added 33 goals to her resume. Her list of accomplishments expands daily, including winning Offensive Player of the year three times and earning First Team All-Red Division and First Team All-Conference awards.
Vaughan has plenty of time left to shock and amaze her fans. “There is always time for improvement in my mind, and I strive to do my best every game. which often leads to success,” shared Vaughan.
Field hockey plays a spooky Halloween game against Arthur L. Johnson High School on Thursday, October 31 at 4pm in preparation of the NJSIAA State Tournament.
Posted on 10/30/24
Photos by Elisa Cioku and Bailey Opramollo
Knight Life 