SOUTH PARIS – Numerous questions needed to be answered on the Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School field hockey team this fall, after graduation losses had left some significant holes.

Brianna Thompson has proven herself an answer to at least some of those questions, as well as a shining example of how competition can bring out a player’s best.

Thompson has come out of her admittedly self-imposed shell and is performing up to her potential. The Vikings required a leader on offense, and Thompson has become a cog in the attack. Thompson has scored nine goals and one assist, including multiple-goal games against Morse and Lewiston.

Her scores have come at opportune times, also. Four Thompson goals have been game-winners.

“I think in previous years I have been intimidated by the older girls,” Thompson said. “I guess now I feel as though I’m actually on the team.

Thompson was asked recently if her performances have been a surprise.

“I guess I haven’t really looked at it from that perspective before,” she said. “I’m pleased with how well our team is working, and as a whole I think our performance has surprised us and others.”

One of Thompson’s biggest supporters, Oxford Hills coach Cindy Goddard, is extremely pleased to see the junior display her skills.

“Since sixth grade, I have thought that Bri was going to be a player,” Goddard said. “She is quick, athletic and smart, and has good skills to start with. I thought that I would have received moreo ut of her last year, but I think that she didn’t want to step on the upperclassmen’s toes.”

Thompson agrees with her coach’s assessment. She admits that there was a degree of intimidation about being the new kid on the block.

Now, younger teammates look to Thompson for guidance.

“This year, the team and (Thompson) believe she is the offensive player to go to,” Goddard said. “I think she is much more comfortable with this added pressure and being the offensive leader.”

Oxford Hills is battling with Messalonskee and Mount Blue for a top-five seed in the Eastern Class A playoffs.

The Vikings dropped three straight games entering Tuesday’s clash with Edward Little.

Lending offensive support to Thompson are front-liners Alissa Flick, Bailey Holloway, Vanna Brackett, Ellie Scwhaner and Tia Pratt.

Val Seams has been successful in her first season as starting goalie.

“Every team’s goal is to make it to the state game,” Thompson said. “But if we don’t make it that far, I hope that this season will be a lasting memory. I want people to recognize that we are a strong team, and it’s not just a rebuilding year.”

Thompson who also plays basketball and lacrosse, almost switched to the soccer field this year. Then she had a change of heart, much to the delight of the field hockey team.

“I actually attempted to play soccer this summer,” Thompson said. “I was thinking I might switch over, but ended up staying with field hockey. I think my motivation is just being on a team and interacting with everyone as a teammate and on a personal level.”

Thompson also excels in the classroom as an honor roll student and a member of the National Honor Society. She’s also involved in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program.