In Northeast Ohio, Hudson has been a key player in the highly competitive field hockey landscape, frequently facing tough rivals and enduring several setbacks in recent regional tournaments. Over the past four seasons, the Explorers have encountered Shaker Heights in the regional final three times and lost to Magnificat in the semifinals, demonstrating the intense rivalry within the region.
Despite these challenges, senior Lexie St. Pierre has emerged as a standout talent. She concluded her high school career with a remarkable achievement, earning first-team All-Ohio honors for the second consecutive year and being named player of the year in the Northeast Ohio Field Hockey League. She also received recognition as cleveland.com’s field hockey player of the year after scoring seven goals and providing six assists this season. The Explorers ended their regular league play with an impressive 11-1 record and a 14-7 overall mark, earning the No. 2 seed in the Northeast Region behind Shaker Heights, who eventually became the state runner-up.
Reflecting on her most cherished moments, St. Pierre revealed that her favorite memory extends beyond game statistics. “Definitely finishing out the year with all my friends for my senior year,” she noted, highlighting the camaraderie developed with teammates throughout their journey since middle school.
The Explorers’ only league defeat came against Shaker Heights, while they secured victories against Magnificat and Hawken, indicating their competitive prowess despite facing formidable opponents. St. Pierre emphasized the importance of overcoming these rivals for a chance at state competition.
Although she initially planned to play lacrosse at Louisville, St. Pierre will pursue her college education elsewhere without participating in sports. She expressed pride in her senior class, which includes fellow honorees Mackie Stickler, Olivia Ott, Gabi Censoprano, and Sara Killeen, stating, “I think we left (the program) at a good point.” Her insights inspire optimism for future seasons, as she believes the program is well-prepared for the next generation of athletes.
The article also highlights other stars in the league, including Sloan Fenton and Charlotte Juann from Shaker Heights and several outstanding players from Hathaway Brown and Magnificat, showcasing a rich pool of talent in the region.
In summary, Hudson’s field hockey program, with remarkable performances by St. Pierre and her classmates, demonstrates promise and resilience in the face of tough competition. Their experiences and achievements not only reflect personal growth but also lay a strong foundation for the future of the Explorers’ field hockey team. As they move forward, there is a sense of anticipation for the upcoming season filled with potential.