The Rye Varsity Field Hockey team enters a new era in 2025, as Quinnipiac alumnus Valerie Perkins takes the reigns as head coach. Perkins has been getting acclimated to her new surroundings throughout the summer, and she is set to lead a program that has a reputation for producing collegiate athletes and flirting with the top of the LoHud rankings perennially.
“I’m excited to be coaching a great program,” Perkins told MyRye.com before the season. “The girls have a strong work ethic and are very dedicated to the sport. We have a challenging schedule and we’re looking forward to the season.”
Last year, the Garnets finished 13-7 and advanced to the Section One semifinals, where they fell in a tight battle to Lakeland. The Hornets represent one of the biggest challenges on the schedule once again for Rye one year later, although Perkins knows there are more tough matchups than just one opponent. She anticipates the games against Horace Greeley, Mamaroneck, and John Jay-Cross River will also force Rye to play their best to come out on top. “These games have been close in the past and we’re looking forward to testing our skills and tactics,” Perkins confirmed.
The Garnets named four captains ahead of their first matchup on September 3 – seniors Beau Whaling, Sienna Myers, Cara Bartlett, and Issy Mann. The veteran leadership core will be crucial to help guide the team in their first year with a new head coach, both on and off the field.
“All four seniors have set an example for the team before the season even began,” Perkins said. “They lead by example and motivate encourage the younger players.”
Rye began on September 3 with the season opener against Pelham, and will play regular season games throughout this month and next. They are looking to claim their third league title since 2020. Even with a coaching change, it is a realistic goal, considering the Garnets graduated only three seniors from the 2024 roster that reached the sectional semifinals.
