Marblehead field hockey all about the future

The field hockey Magicians wrapped up their season, finishing with a 4-14 record, but under first-year coach Mia Maccario, a new culture may have found its roots. “Everything was brand new. When they stepped on that field and they all showed up, they gave it their all,” said Maccario, who has been involved with the program since 2015, mostly with the middle school team. “I think we did the best we could with what we were given, so I’m kind of excited to see how we can keep that going into next year.” She’s right. Maccario took the job at the “last minute” prior to the season, and didn’t have a junior varsity or assistant coach until after tryouts. “I think a big thing that’s going to help us coming into next season is being organized and having offseason programs set in place,” she said. “You want to come in feeling confident and strong so it trickles down to your players.” And the more she gets to know her players, the easier it will be to find success, according to the former assistant girls hockey coach at the school. “I feel like going into next season, I’m going to have a better understanding of who’s who… learning everyone’s style, and who plays better with each other,” Maccario said. It’s never easy to take a new job with little preparation, but she credits her senior leaders and upperclassmen for making the transition easier. “[The upperclassmen] had a huge role in helping me,” she said. “Knowing the girls and having them there to help and support was greatly appreciated. I think your upperclassmen having a positive attitude kind of dictates the way the season is going to go.” Older players are also “role models,” per Maccario. “[The team] was super welcoming and open, and they were very eager to learn. So, that helps with the transition as well,” she said. Now, with a full season under her belt, Maccario is feeling more comfortable at the helm, and thinks the same is in effect for her returning players. “I think they’re coming in already knowing what I expect from them, how my systems are played, and how they’re expected to show up, condition, and work hard,” she said. Keeping that same attitude amongst her team is the main goal, and will be a major contributor to turning losses into wins. “Any coach likes to make sure that [their team] is having fun, their drive is there, that they want to be there, and that they’re competitive,” she said. “I think slowly, but surely, we’re definitely getting there.” If you ask her, she’s already seen glimpses of what could come. “When they showed up for themselves and their teammates, they kept up with the other competitive teams that we played,” Maccario said. “It’s kind of nice to see that and how they all stayed positive, and they didn’t give up. I’m super proud of them.”