Playing field hockey has been an escape for freshman Annabelle Olsen since sixth grade. When she came to high school and got the chance to play on the varsity team, it motivated her athletic journey. 

“I felt good that my abilities were growing and being recognized and that I got to do something I love with people I love,” Olsen said.

Olsen had one of her best performances in a varsity game, feeling more confident than ever. However, during her JV game directly after, an unexpected injury cut short the celebration of her achievements. 

“While I was going to receive a ball, a girl from Parkway South ran into the side of my head and knocked me over. I couldn’t see, walk or talk. All I knew at that moment was that this was going to affect the rest of my season.” Olsen said.

After the impact, Olsen could not stay on her feet or communicate clearly. Coaches and medical staff rushed to her side, and she was transported off the field in a golf cart.

“This experience taught me that I have an amazing support system. The girls on my team dropped off cards, and my friends checked in on me a lot,” Olsen said.

Though initially heartbroken to be sidelined, Olsen found that her injury brought unexpected benefits. Away from the field, she had more time to invest in the Speech and Debate team, focusing on sharpening her skills and catching up on the work she had missed while recovering.

“I focused on Speech and Debate and catching up on my work after my concussion. I learned a lot about time management because I missed so much school. I needed to develop new ways of planning and keeping track of assignments,” Olsen said.

Reflecting on what the season taught her, Olsen looks forward to next year with renewed gratitude and caution. She now understands just how much field hockey means to her, but she’s also more mindful of the risks involved and plans to prioritize her safety in every game, whilst still playing to the best of her ability.

“I’ll go into next season grateful I can play because being away from field hockey has made me realize how much I love it and be a little more watchful for my safety. Next season, I will be more cautious so this doesn’t repeat,” Olsen said.

Olsen plans to work on her strength and conditioning during the offseason to prepare her body for the game’s physical demands. Additionally, Olsen intends to advocate for player safety by encouraging more communication and awareness among teammates. Olsen’s time away has also deepened her appreciation for the support systems in her life, from her teammates to her coaches and friends. These experiences have reinforced her determination to not only return stronger but to cherish every moment on the field. Though the injury may have seemed like a major setback, Olsen now sees it as a turning point in her growth.