Hailey Parsons

When Lake Region varsity field hockey coach Pauline Webb and her assistant coaches considered who they would name as “Player of the Week,” they had a difficult time choosing a player for this award.

“With so much improvement from team members from one game to the next this season, we had to get a little ‘picky’ on details for this award,” Coach Webb said.

Junior Hailey Parsons has really stepped up her game this season and “has developed into one of our ‘go to’ players when we need a big hit,” Coach Webb said.

“Hailey started pushing herself more and developing her game more during the summer season; her intensity and personal drive increased throughout the summer season and continued into our regular season,” the coach said. “She is definitely our most improved player from last season.”

Hailey plays midfield and is able to play the whole game, which shows great endurance, as midfielders play from one end to the other.

“She plays with so much more confidence and determination than I’ve ever seen her play. She can carry the ball out of traffic and release it to her forwards; she takes many of our free hits; and she plays a key role in our defensive penalty corners,” Coach Webb noted. “She may be quiet, but she’s always one to compliment her teammates when they have a good game, or someone does something really nice.”

Coach Webb recalled a game a couple weeks ago when the Laker girls came off the field at halftime, and Hailey was praising one of her teammates and telling her she’s the MVP.

“In this particular game, Hailey herself was playing like an MVP, but gave her teammate the praise,” Coach Webb said. “Hailey may not be wearing the captain’s band in games, but that hasn’t stopped her from leading by example. The coaches are pleased to recognize Hailey for her hard work, improvement, positive and humble attitude and consistent play.”

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Hailey is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The Parsons File

Name: Hailey Parsons

Year in School: Junior

Hometown: Naples

Parents: Travis and Erika Parsons

Sports you play: Field hockey and lacrosse

School organizations: Varsity Club

School honors: Honor Roll

Why did you choose to play field hockey? I had friends who played, and loved the game. It looked like a fun sport, and I’m really glad I picked it up.

What is the most difficult part of the game? The most difficult part is having the mental skill to quickly let your mistakes go and return your focus back to the action.

What do you enjoy the most about the sport? I love the competitiveness of it. Our team gets so into each game and even just drills during practice. We love to play rough and tough.

What do you feel you need to work on and why? I need to avoid being psyched out and intimated by the opposing teams. I need to focus more on my play.

Why is teamwork important? Achieving a victory always requires the effort of every team member. Without the support and positive attitudes on our team, we would not be as close to each other as we are.

What is the biggest impact your coach(es) have had on you? My coaches push me to be the best that I can be. Without the encouragements from them, I wouldn’t be the player I am.

How do you want people to view you as an athlete? I want people to see me as a hardworking student-athlete, who will do anything to benefit my team.

Ten years from now, when you look back on your high school sports career, what do you think you will remember most? In 10 years, what I’ll remember most are the amazing friendships I’ve made with the people on my team. I wouldn’t trade them for the world.