Junior Abby Krasaeath won all-State honors and the Independent School League’s Defender of the Year award, capping off a remarkable season for her personally as well as for Latin’s varsity field hockey team.

Abby has played field hockey since fifth grade, but this season has been the biggest of her career. She worked hard to lead her team to fourth place in the state, Latin’s first time in the final four.

Abby realized her love for the sport after playing with Windy City Field Hockey. Playing with the team helped her realize her passion for the sport and desire to continue playing in college.

“The role models from Windy City truly led the way for me and helped me define what it is to be a good field hockey player,” Abby said.

Abby’s hard work paid off this year when she made the first team All-State, a prestigious award for the best players in Illinois. Attending a small school like Latin makes this even more of a notable achievement.

“I practice with my travel team two to three times a week, doing my own strength and conditioning throughout,” Abby said. Her determination to attend each practice and strengthen her talent on her own time has molded her into the player she is today.

Abby has committed to playing D1 field hockey for Brown University.

“I was so fortunate to find Brown as my perfect fit,” Abby said. “It’s a combination of a rigorous open curriculum model, competitive Ivy League field hockey, and the kindest and most welcoming team culture.”

Being a student-athlete means having the ability to excel both in the classroom and on the field. “The biggest thing that I work on is trying to stay extremely accountable and organized with my tasks,” she said.

Abby’s dedication to staying on top of her school work while playing at a high level speaks to her growing strength as a leader.

Head field hockey coach Mackenzie Mick said, “Abby has made tremendous strides in her leadership and confidence on the field. She never asks for a reward. Abby is motivated by the success of the team.”

Abby’s teammates have noticed her growing leadership.

Sophomore and fellow girls varsity hockey player Meredith Maechling said, “Over the past three years, the field hockey program has grown so much, and I think Abby had a huge part in helping the program flourish.”

Abby and her teammates made a profound impact on Latin’s field hockey program, and it was the people around Abby who inspired her.

“I am so proud of everything that our team has worked to accomplish this year, and so grateful to all of the people who contributed to this environment of enthusiasm and success,” she said.