Members of JV Girls Hockey Talk Undefeated Season and Love for the Sport 

Everyone knows the three levels of sports offered at Norwood High, but not many people know about every team at each level. JV Girls Hockey is currently undefeated with six wins currently. Junior Ashley Zammito, a JV and varsity athlete, plays for the girl’s hockey team alongside 8th grader Molly Federico. 

Zammito says she doesn’t notice a lack of coverage in JV sports until she started playing on the varsity team as well. “When people hear that title, I think they have a prejudice of a team that isn't as good or skilled so that's why people don't seem to care as much.”

Although varsity sports usually take the lead in media and coverage at the high school, Federico says she and her teammates don’t experience a lack of support. “Everyone is very supportive of Norwood Girls Hockey as many people have friends that play on the team. When everyone comes and supports us at games it gives us much motivation!” 

Zammito agreed, saying “Students seem to get the relevance of just playing a sport no matter what the title is.  There were many times when I would have a game that day and there would always be kids during school wishing me and the team good luck.”

She wants people to know about the hard work JV athletes put in. “...We work hard, sometimes even harder because I know athletes whose goal is to make Varsity and they are determined to do what it takes to get better and stronger...JV players have to do this on their own and seek out private facilities and resources.”

The JV girls are having a successful season. “Our season is going great. We are undefeated and hope to keep it that way.” Says Federico. Zammito agreed, reinforcing their success and commenting on the closeness of the team. “Currently, we are undefeated after playing 6 games. The girls are fun to play with and we learn a lot from each other.”

As an 8th grader, Federico has gained experience playing a high school sport. “It has been a really great learning experience so far in the season. With the JV girls practicing with the Varsity girls, it is really cool to play with the older girls and look up to them!”

Zammito says, “I did not play as an 8th grader because there was actually no JV team at the time and the program started up when I was a freshman. Mike Maloof has done an amazing job at building the girls JV ice hockey program.” 

“Mike is one of the best coaches I've ever had,” she adds.

Both girls share a love for the sport. “One thing I love about hockey is most people don’t expect girls to play it. It makes me feel so great when I can show everyone that girls can do just as much as boys do. The sport is for everyone!” Federico says.

“The game is so fast and exciting and it's also such a great stress reliever. It's a really good way for me to take a mental break, skating helps get my mind off of everyday stress. On the days when we have a game I'm always in a good mood.”