Athlete Spotlight: Field
Hockey’s Isabella Corcoran

Isabella Corcoran, a freshman goalkeeper for Fitchburg State field hockey, picked up her first career win in her first ever conference game start. Her performance won her MASCAC rookie of the week honors, her first ever collegiate award. She posted a shutout, not allowing any goals while saving four shots in a 5-0 triumph over the Bears of Bridgewater State on Saturday, October 12th.

This fall has been a fantastic journey for Isabella as a freshman on the women’s field hockey team. Reflecting on her season experience she stated, “Coming into the season, I felt uncertain about my place among the competition, but the support from upperclassmen has been invaluable.” Corcoran plays the same position as senior Jenna Morse, who has started eleven games to Corcoran’s two. She credits the upperclassmen for helping her stay engaged and motivated throughout the year, “They’ve really helped me build confidence, and that’s made the season a lot more fun and exciting.” She gives all the praise to her teammates for having her back through it all this season.

The positivity in the locker room surely contributes to the team’s success, as the Falcons are currently on a five game winning streak. She believes that the strong play can continue, saying “if we keep playing like we have been, I know our success will continue.” Keeping the team morale high and staying positive throughout the success is how she is able to stay focused as a freshman on an experienced team.

Isabella prepares on and off the field, studying film, and prioritizing her rest, stating that she gets a good night’s sleep before games. “Watching film of our opponents gives me valuable insight into what I’ll be dealing with.” Isabella stays prepared by scouting her opponents before the games begin.

Outside the game of field hockey, Isabella loves spending time with her friends. Stating that “Hanging out with them allows me to relax and take a break from the pressures of athletics. It’s important to socialize and clear my mind.” Which is a really important factor in sports that tends to be overlooked.

I asked her about her journey of playing the sport she loved. She stated that her journey began in the 8th grade, specifically crediting her coach for encouraging her to play. “He convinced me to give it a shot, saying the transition would be easy since I was already a hockey goalie.” Thanks to her 8th grade coach, she’s now a MASCAC rookie of the week player with many more accomplishments ahead.