Since picking up the sport in sixth grade, Katie Wimmer ’21 has led a successful field hockey career, including her qualification for Team USA’s Elite U14 Team Stars and Stripes two years ago. Wimmer, who plays goalkeeper for Andover Varsity Field Hockey, has been crucial in Andover’s undefeated season, letting in a total of only three goals so far, according to Abbey Otterbein PG ’19, Carly Kreytak ’20, and Emily Batchelor ’19.
Otterbein wrote in an email to The Phillipian, “Katie has made some great saves throughout the season. Out of 11 games [as of October 27], as a team, we only have two goals scored against us and we have Katie to thank for that.”
Kreytak wrote in an email to The Phillipian, “[Katie] is so strong in the net—she’s smart, quick, and gets the job done. She makes crazy saves in practice and although the ball hasn’t gotten to her much this season, she is always ready. Katie is fun off the field and intense on the field. When she’s in net I have lots of confidence in her. We are so lucky that we have her. She works so hard and it shows.”
Wimmer’s presence on the field is impactful both inside and outside the net, according to Otterbein.
“She is great in net on our defensive corners, and has a strong kick to clear the ball out of the circle. Katie is solid in net. Her confidence and effort in practice carries through in every game she plays. Though only a Lower, Katie’s skill level as goalie is excellent and she is very knowledgeable about the game itself,” wrote Otterbein.
In addition to Wimmer’s contribution to the team as an experienced goalkeeper, her optimistic and encouraging spirit is greatly appreciated by her teammates, according to Batchelor and Otterbein.
Batchelor wrote in an email to The Phillipian, “Katie Wimmer is such a positive girl, she is always cracking jokes and makes everyone laugh. I love having her on the team and being able to see her at practice everyday. We are so lucky to have a teammate like her.”
Otterbein wrote, “On the field, she is encouraging. I notice her giving each of her teammates words of encouragement and appreciation.”
Due to her combination of skill, spirit, and experience, Wimmer has been named The Phillipian’s Athlete Of The Week.
1. Why did you start playing field hockey?
The field hockey coach at my middle school encouraged me to start playing and I thought it would be a fun sport to try.
2. What made you want to become a goalie?
I have always loved playing goalie. I played in that position in hockey, soccer, and even played catcher in softball, so when I found out that my team needed a goalie, I almost immediately volunteered.
3. What is your favorite thing about playing field hockey?
My favorite part is probably the community of people that are involved, because everyone I’ve met and played on teams with has been so nice and supportive.
4. Have you encountered troubles while playing field hockey, and what keeps you going through the troubles?
I think the hardest thing about playing goalie in field hockey is that since the games are low scoring, letting in a shot is a big deal and harder to bounce back from. My teammates always reassure me and help me focus on the next shot.
5. How is the team this year? And how do you feel you have contributed so far?
The team this year is amazing. We have so many talented and hardworking players and I’m so glad I get to be a part of it. Since our defense is so incredible this season, I haven’t had a tremendous impact on the outcome of games, but I always try to be a positive presence on the field.
6. What is your proudest moment playing field hockey, whether that be at Andover or at a club team?
About a year ago I qualified for the USA Field Hockey Elite Team; that was probably my biggest accomplishment in field hockey.
