Clearview Regional High’s field hockey team is filled with offensive talent.
The backbone of the defending Group 3 state champions, however, is its defense. The Pioneers’ lockdown back end has allowed zero goals in seven of their 13 wins.
Part of the credit for that dominance belongs to junior Addison McConnell, who has played a significant defensive role for the Pioneers.
Clearview is locked in as the No. 4 seed in the upcoming South Jersey Group 3 playoffs, which start when the Pioneers host Triton in the opening round on Tuesday.
Get to know McConnell as correspondent Brian Tortella asked her some questions just before the start of the state playoffs, where she’ll be looking to add another state championship ring to her résumé.
Tortella: Your squad will have the No. 4 seed in the upcoming South Jersey Group 3 playoffs. What’s your mindset going into the postseason, and do you believe this team has what it takes to repeat?
McConnell: I think our team works really well together and has what it takes to repeat. My mindset going into the playoffs is to take it one game at a time.
Tortella: What was the feeling after winning your first state championship last year over North Hunterdon?
McConnell: It was such a great feeling, especially after going into OT twice. We had the goal set in the beginning of the season and worked hard to accomplish it.
Tortella: Earlier this season, you earned two huge wins in the MAX Field HockeyNational High School Invitational. What was the experience like playing top-ranked competition at the Proving Grounds?
McConnell: It was a great experience playing very skilled teams. I think our team played really well and it helped prepare us for the playoffs.
Tortella: What do you like most about head coach Britney Ewan and assistant Jaclyn Guth?
McConnell: One of my favorite things about them is how well they know our strengths and weaknesses as players. They are both passionate and patient coaches and explain things so well. I’m so lucky to have such amazing coaches!
Tortella: Who’s someone who has motivated you and influenced you throughout your field hockey career?
McConnell: My mom (Lisa) and dad (Todd). They both support me through everything.
Tortella: Walk us through how you started playing field hockey. What got you interested in the sport?
McConnell: My older sister, Ashlin, played and that made me want to start playing. I started playing in fourth grade.
Tortella: What kind of things do you do when you have some down time? I like to spend time with my family and friends, go to the beach, scrapbooking and arts and crafts.
Tortella: Best friend on the team?
McConnell: They are all my best friends. I love them all.
Tortella: Your go-to pregame snack?
McConnell: A Cliff bar or Goldfish.
Tortella: Favorite pregame hype song?
McConnell: Blame it on the Rain (by Milli Vanilli)
Tortella: Favorite artist?
McConnell: Morgan Wallen.
Tortella: Do you have any animals?
McConnell: A dog and a pig.
Contact Brian Tortella: btortreportssj@gmail.com.
