Sport: Cross Country and Hockey

Grade: 9

Freshman Claire Suchy has been running cross country since she was in seventh grade, not to mention playing hockey since she was in kindergarten. Entering into high school, Suchy has continued to grow in her high school sport’s career. You can catch Suchy  running the two mile or the 5k at Orono cross country meets, or playing left wing for Orono Girl’s Hockey team.

“My mom ran cross country when she was younger, so I believed that it would be worth giving it a try,” said Suchy. As far as hockey, Suchy started at such a young age that her parents simply signed her up. Yet, she is appreciative for this choice her parents made years ago.

As the cross country season concluded in late October, Suchy did extremely well. Throughout the season she was at the top of the JV team, but during sections her excellence allowed her to move up to run with the varsity team. Suchy was able to place in the Litchfield meet and even in conference at Delano, securing fifth place in both.  

After cross country concluded, Suchy continued onto her winter sport, hockey. The freshman has attained a position on Varsity since eighth grade. As a crucial team member, Suchy has helped the girls get off to a great start to their season; a record of 3-1.

“It would be really cool to possibly play sports in college or some sort of higher league,” Suchy said. Being only a freshman, Suchy has aspirations for the future of her sports career. Hockey has always been a passion of  Suchy’s and she wishes to continue her love of the game into college.

Although cross country is more of an individualistic sport, senior cross country captain, Grace Leslie raved about Suchy on and off the course.

“In races she is very competitive and strong. When she isn’t running she is an extremely hard worker. She is easy to get along with and overall a huge addition to the team. She not only inspires the younger runners, but she also creates a happier environment for everyone,” Leslie said.  

Senior hockey captain, Emma Sternberg also remarked on Suchy’s incredible hockey skills and team responsibility.

“I love playing with Suchy,” Sternberg said, “she is an extremely hard worker. She is reliable and I know that when she steps on the ice, she is going to give her all. She also has incredible stick handling skills which makes her fun to watch,”

Along with the stellar athlete that Suchy has grown into over the years, she also developed a delightful personality. Her teammates appreciate her hard work, skill level, dedication to the team, and the positive impact she imparts on the team.