Ellen Hivner has been playing field hockey for nearly ten years, and the end of her final season is approaching. This year was as rewarding as any of the previous, and Ellen says she is eagerly anticipating the playoffs.
As a senior captain on the team, Ellen considers herself as “being a leader, an example for the other girls. Being the link between the coach and players, [and] being an encourager for the freshmen coming in.”
When she is not on the field, Ellen enjoys spending her time with friends and family. Ellen’s faith also plays a big part in her life. She values her relationship with God and challenges herself spiritually.
Ellen is majoring in elementary and special education. She hopes to acquire a position as a second or third grade teacher. If things work out as planned, she may be teaching in the Radnor area or near her home in Lancaster.
Various challenges have come Ellen’s way this season. She played defense her first three years at Eastern, but switched to an offensive position this season. The adjustment took some getting used to. “Now, at the end of the season, I know where I fit in better, in general,” Ellen said.
In addition, Ellen faced an injury. A ball hit her in the face, breaking her nose. To protect her nose until it fully healed, Ellen wore lacrosse goggles for about a week when she played. “Praise God for His strength and healing,” she said.
Ellen’s advice is to “play each game like it is your last because you never know when you’ll be injured or playing inhibited.”
The field hockey team currently has a record of 13-5. Last year, the women won the PAC and they went to the NCAA District III tournament. “We have the same potential for success this year,” Ellen said.
“Everyone just has to play their best,” she said. “We just have to come together and achieve our best as a team.”