Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Kelly McManus Named to All Region Team


Senior midfielder Kelly McManus was included on the 2011 Longstreth/FHCA Division III All-Region Teams announced by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association, her first career postseason award. McManus was named to the Second Team in the New England West Region.

A natural team leader and tough competitor, McManus (Plymouth, N.H.) recorded a pair of assists in addition to one defensive save in the 2011 season. Over her four years on the Bates field hockey team, she accumulated three goals and 14 assists with two defensive saves. She served as team captain alongside 
senior Sarah Merullo (Essex, Mass.).  McManus is also a three-year member of the Bates softball team.

Her never-give-up attitude carried the team and allowed them to be optimistic, even in the toughest of situations. In conjunction with her obvious skill, her character is what makes her a superior athlete. Her passion and desire to win is almost tangible when watching her play. The fact that she can often be seen diving for loose balls can attest to how hard she works for her team.

To teammates, Kelly is the type of leader that will always bring out the best in someone. She has a remarkable ability that can't be taught - the ability to  inspire people. 


"It's easy for me say that Kelly was considered the backbone of the team. Her graduating will leave a significant void in our team but everything she has taught us about determination and attitude will always remain with us." -Bridget Meedzan '14 (Ipswich, Mass.)

"Kelly never failed to motivate me on and off the field whether it was running the last 100 in practice or making a recovery run in the game. She's a champion when it comes to stick work and selfless play, which made her critical to our team's success." -Kate Pagano '14 (Worcester, Mass.)