Southern Delaware’s field hockey scene is known for its competitive edge, with talented players and strong coaching, where nothing is given and everything is earned. Last season, Milford High School’s field hockey team showcased this ethos, finishing with an impressive 13-2 regular season record and reaching the semi-finals of the State Tournament. While field hockey is undeniably a team sport, Milford’s success was propelled by two standout players—Bailey Masten and Hannah Zimmerman—who earned 1st Team All-State honors, a rare and remarkable achievement for juniors.
The recognition of Masten and Zimmerman as juniors is a testament to their exceptional talent and hard work, a feat that surprised many, but not those who have watched them develop. Milford’s coach, Andrea McPike, who has guided both players since their youth, emphasized their leadership and commitment. “Both of them have been out here working even harder than last season. They aren’t just players, they are leaders. These are two young ladies I have known and coached for a very long time; it is just wonderful to see them flourish like this. Every day, every practice, it is all about what they can do for the team,” McPike stated.
Bailey Masten, an aggressive attacker, began her field hockey journey at the age of five under McPike’s mentorship. From youth camps to travel hockey with Orange field hockey and now with Shorebirds, Masten’s development has been steady and impressive. Reflecting on her All-State selection, Masten said, “I have to say I was a little surprised. However, I work very hard at being the best player I can be, so I am very proud to have been honored. It honestly has made me try harder; I am always looking to improve my game.”
Masten, who will attend Towson University next year, remains focused on the upcoming season. “This is a big season we have coming up. We always strive to improve, and we think that we can build off of last season. Everyone has been working hard, and we are looking forward to what lies ahead,” she remarked.
Coach McPike praised Masten’s leadership and presence on the field, noting, “Bailey is very vocal on the field; she is always making sure that players are doing what they need to do when they need to do it. She always seems to come up huge when the pressure is on and really seems to love the pressure.”
Hannah Zimmerman, a versatile midfielder, also expressed surprise at her All-State selection. “Honestly, I was a bit shocked when I got the news. It’s something that was in the back of my mind, but it took a little while to sink in,” she shared. Zimmerman, who will head to Virginia Commonwealth University after graduation, is a critical player for Milford, serving as the team’s point guard. Her precise passing and ability to move the ball through the midfield, coupled with her defensive acumen, make her an invaluable asset.
Zimmerman’s leadership style is more reserved than Masten’s, focusing on leading by example. “I really like to lead by example. I like to make sure everyone knows their job and where they are supposed to be on the field. It is important that everyone gives 100 percent, and I do that by always giving it everything I have,” Zimmerman said.
Coach McPike highlighted Zimmerman’s strategic mind, adding, “Hannah has a great mind for the game; she is always thinking about the big picture. She will come to the coaches with ideas and what she sees, with the goal of making everyone around her better. She has actually seen things we missed; it really is like having another coach on the staff.”
Looking ahead to her senior season, Zimmerman is eager to leave her mark. “Everyone has been working so hard, and you can see everyone believes in each other. You only get one senior year in high school, and even though we have had some good seasons, I want this one to be our best,” she said.
Both Masten and Zimmerman acknowledged the crucial support from their families, expressing deep gratitude for the love and encouragement that has fueled their journey.
For Coach McPike, the connection with Masten and Zimmerman goes beyond the usual player-coach relationship. “I have known and coached them both since they were little kids, and to see how far they have come and all that is ahead of them, I couldn’t be happier for them. They complement each other on the field, and as a tandem, they are fantastic. We have a long season ahead of us, but it will go by in the blink of an eye, I know. It really is an honor to coach two girls as special as Hannah and Bailey.”
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Milford’s dynamic duo, who are determined to lead their team to new heights and leave a lasting legacy on Delaware’s field hockey landscape.
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