Learn field hockey from an early age in Raymond - By Jim Beers

The Raymond field hockey program is set to begin its fourth year, under the new direction of Carrie Colby. Starting September 7th, sessions will be Sundays, at the Raymond Elementary School's soccer field in Raymond. It is open to grades 3 to 6, and will run from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The program will scrimmage against teams from Bonny Eagle, Poland and Lake Region. Participating in three round robin tourneys last year, they look to do the same this year. Last year's tournament at Scarborough featured 10 teams, while another at USM Gorham's campus was exciting for the players to play on a college turf field.

The program was started by Julie Wilson, with volunteers Chris Fielding, Erin Gurney and Colby. It has flourished and provided Raymond and Windham players a chance to really get exposed to the sport at a young age. "We are really proud of the fact that some of the program's participants through the first three years now play on middle and high school teams," said Colby.

Players have also benefited from some local talent to learn great skills and gain a knowledge of the game as a whole. Raymond resident and former Windham High School standout Morgan Richmond was invaluable to the program in teaching its players all aspects from her experiences in field hockey. Morgan now showcases her talents at Keene State College.

If you have a young player wondering about field hockey, the program in Raymond is a great place to start. For more on the program call Colby at 232-5497 or 655-2225.