Field hockey player sets team record for saves

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Photo credit/ Alex Weidner

Anne Zukowski, Web Editor

The Marywood field hockey records book has a new entry.

During this past season, Tori Jo Kakusian, a sophomore criminal justice major, set the team record of 13 defensive goal saves. Previously, the record was 12 saves by Briana Bacchetta in 2012. The total is also a personal best for Kakusian dating back through her playing years in high school.

Kakusian said the team’s goals this season included improving skills and qualifying for conferences. She did not expect to break a record.

“We have a lot of heart out on the field,” said Kakusian. “On the field we put every minute into every game.”

Despite being a defender, Kakusian still ranked second on the team with 10 goals and 21 points. Kakusian said she makes most of her goals and assists during penalty corners.

Head Field Hockey Coach Kacy Manning reflected on Kakusian’s accomplishment by highlighting what she brings to the team.

“Her stats speak for themsleves. Kakusian is a game-changing player. She sets the tone for games,” said Manning.

Despite only being a sophomore, Kakusian is a team captain, placing her in a leadership role at a young age. Her play has already earned her numerous awards.

Those awards include the Synapse Sports Division III Field Hockey Honor Roll and Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) Defensive Player of the Week for week ending October 11. Her 13-save record made Kakusian the seventh-ranked player nationally in that category.

“Kakusian has a great skill set that sets her apart from other offenders. She has an eye for the ball. She is a really good leader and a good player,” said Manning.

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