Coaching Rye is an occasional feature to meet the people that coach the student athletes of Rye. Often teachers as well, these coaches spent afternoons, evenings and weekends on fields, courts, courses and other venues helping our athletes be their best. After five seasons as the Head Varsity Field Coach at Rye High School, Field Hockey Coach Kelly Vegliante stepped down at the end of last season to spend more time with family and focus on her club field hockey program, FC United.
Today, meet the new Varsity Field Hockey Head Coach, Valerie Perkins.
Do you have feedback or suggestions? Tell us.
Your name: Valerie Perkins
Team & Title: Varsity Field Hockey Head Coach
MyRye.com: What year did you begin coaching Varsity Field Hockey?
Perkins: This will be my first year as Rye Field Hockey’s Head Varsity Coach. I am excited to bring my passion for the game and my experience to the program, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know the players while coaching them in summer league over the past six weeks.
What made you want to become a coach, and how has your “why” evolved over the years?
Perkins: I first became a coach because I love the game of field hockey and wanted to share that passion by helping the sport grow. Over time, my “why” has evolved into wanting to make a meaningful impact on my players’ lives both on and off the field. I strive to help athletes develop not only as skilled players, but also as confident, resilient, and well-rounded young women.
Do you coach anywhere else besides Rye High School?
Perkins: No, I do not.
Did you play sports in high school or college?
Perkins: I grew up playing both field hockey and lacrosse at Lakeland High School, where I was lucky to be part of an incredible field hockey program that won the state championship all four years I played. I then had the privilege of continuing my field hockey career at Quinnipiac University, competing at the Division I level for four years. During my junior and senior years, I had the honor of serving as team captain, an experience that strengthened my leadership skills and commitment to team success.
Who was the coach or mentor that shaped your own philosophy, and how?
Perkins: One of the most influential coaches in my life was my high school coach at Lakeland, Sharon Sarsen, who taught me the importance of accountability, preparation, and belief in your team. She showed me that a coach’s role extends beyond the field—it’s about helping athletes reach their fullest potential as people. Her balance of high expectations with unwavering support continues to inspire how I coach today.
What makes a great student athlete in Rye?
Perkins: A great student athlete in Rye sets an example on and off the field, works hard in the classroom, and shows leadership by encouraging and mentoring younger athletes.
Is there a favorite tradition, chant, or team saying that outsiders wouldn’t understand?
Perkins: I’m looking forward to learning more about Rye’s special traditions and team culture this season, and I’m excited to embrace and continue them with the program.
What’s one stat that doesn’t show up in the box score but matters to you the most?
Perkins: Effort and hustle are two things that can’t be measured on paper but make the biggest difference on the field. When a player gives everything they have on every play, it sets the tone for the entire team.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received — as a coach or a person?
Perkins: The best advice I’ve ever received is to “control what you can control.” It’s a reminder to focus my energy on preparation, attitude, and effort—things within my power—rather than dwelling on what’s out of my hands.
What do you do to reset after a tough loss or a hard day?
Perkins: After a tough game or challenging day, I take time to reflect on what we can learn from the experience and how we can improve moving forward. I also like to spend time outside or with family and friends to reset and refocus.
Thanks Coach!
