By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

FRYEBURG — Ellen Bacchiocchi is a blue-collar field hockey player.

She always hustles along the sideline, putting pressure on opposing team’s defenses.

She is tenacious when it comes to winning the ball from a defender.

And, Ellen is often in the right spot at the right time in front of the opposing team’s goal cage, giving Fryeburg Academy another scoring threat.

Her play is one reason why the Raiders occupy the Number 1 spot in the Class B West Heal Point ratings.

“Ellen is a seasoned varsity field hockey starter. She is extremely focused and carries the ball down the wing with grace,” FA Coach Dede Frost said. “Ellen is hard working and dedicated. She scored two goals against Greely in less than a minute last week, and had another against Falmouth.”

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Ellen is this week’s Raider Boosters Club “Player of the Week.”

Each week, a Fryeburg Academy athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed T-shirt, sponsored by the Raider Boosters Club.

The Bacchiocchi File

Name: Ellen Bacchiocchi

Hometown: Lovell

Year in School: Junior

Parents: John and Karen Bacchiocchi

School groups/Sports: Raider Patrol, Interact Club, softball, basketball and field hockey.

Q. Why did you choose field hockey? EB. I played soccer, but in the third grade, I tried field hockey and loved it and have played ever since!

Q. What do you hope to accomplish this season? EB. I hope we secure a top spot in the playoffs and go into the playoffs strong.

Q. What do you enjoy the most? EB. The feeling of winning after a really tough game. It feels good to know you truly deserved the win.

Q. What do enjoy the least? EB. When we have a bad game and try our hardest, but cannot correct it.

Q. What makes you successful? EB. I focus on what is needed in the game and try to be a team player.

Q. What would your dream moment be? EB. Winning the Class B State Championship.

Q. What has sports taught you? EB. How to work hard all the time, never give up and to play as a team all the time. I have also learned how to manage my time.

Q. What do you like most about your team? EB. That we work well together. Most of us have been playing together for a few years at least, and we really have learned to play together.

Q. Who has inspired you? EB. My parents have inspired me because they support me so much. Also, Coach Frost has inspired me in field hockey.