Senior Captain of the Girls’ Field Hockey Team Erin Fiorelli won “Goalie of the Year” in the conference for the 2024 season, with Fiorelli receiving the most votes out of 12 other talented goalies across the conference.
In response to the rewards Fiorelli said, “I was shocked when I found out that I had won this award. When my coaches had told me that there was a new award this year, goalie of the year, and I had won it, I was in disbelief. It didn’t feel real at first.”
When Erin’s teammates heard that she had won this prestigious award, their reactions were like-minded. “I was really happy for her,” said junior teammate Emma Courtright, which echoed throughout the team. Erin’s coach, Sarah Thompson, noted that Erin’s achievement was a reflection of her talents and hard work, but also credits the whole team for their efforts. Courtright said, “Erin is the first Old Saybrook goalie to win this award, but it takes all 11 players on the field to win, and she had great support from her defense and midfield.”
As a senior captain, Erin’s leadership was far more than just her impressive saves in goal. Courtright said, “Erin has really helped train the younger players.” Erin would always put herself first, and would look at other players’ growth before her own. Coach Thompson acknowledged Erin’s role as a leader on and off the field, describing her as a positive role model and someone who always was counted on to demonstrate what hard work and passion looks like.
Erin’s personal growth from the previous year to now did not go unnoticed, but it wasn’t just her skills that improved, but also her leadership and confidence she has in herself improved as well. “She’s become more confident in directing other players on the field,” said Courtright. Coach Thompson agreed, as she was impressed with how much Erin excelled and led her team. “She was a key figure in our success this season. Erin showed the younger players not only how to play but how to love the game.”
After her impressive 2024 season, Erin believes she left a footprint on her team. “I honestly do think I left a bit of a legacy on my team,” Fiorelli said. “We were like a family this year. Even though our season didn’t go exactly as we wanted, I tried to keep a positive, ambitious outlook, pushing everyone to keep fighting.” Erin’s influence extended to the younger players as well. “She’s always telling us to find enjoyment in the game,” said Courtright. “She’s the reason I kept playing even when things got tough.”
As she looks ahead into the future for her team, Erin is confident that her team is in good hands. “I see a lot of myself in Felicia, our upcoming goalie. She’s made huge strides this past season, and I know she’s going to do great things next year. I’m excited to see where she’ll take this team.”
Though Erin is moving on to the next chapter of her life, her legacy with this school will last forever. As one of her teammates summed it up, “Erin’s impact on this team goes beyond her incredible saves-she taught us all to never give up, keep pushing, and find enjoyment in the game no matter what.”
