BETHEL – They’re not full of rah-rah at this point, however, Kayla Mills and Mallory Brown tend to lead by example. The tandem remains a key component for the Telstar field hockey team, ranked first in Class C Heal Points.

The juniors are becoming leaders and both agree communication is the key. Coach Gail Wight constantly reminds the players to talk about what’s going on, and not surprisingly, the results have been quite positive.

“Both are kinda quiet, but have a great sense of humor,” Wight said. “They are determined and their actions speak louder than words. They’re trying to be more vocal on field and have fun at practice.”

Mills started as a freshman and last fall, Brown earned a starting position on the opposite wing. They each credit the opportunity to have played alongside upperclassmen.

“It was my second season playing beside Alanna, so I knew what to expect,” Mills said. “Mallory got used to it pretty quick too. After playing together last year I know that nine times out of 10 times, when I’m bringing the ball down the field Mal is going to be on (left) post and our midfielder’s are going to be right behind for backpasses. Every one that’s on the field this year is very dependable.”

A major reason in their success is the three-person line deployed by the Rebel offense.Brown and Mills finished one-two in scoring last season. This season Brown has five goals and four assists, Mills has seven goals, two assists.

“I enjoy the three-person line,”Brown said. “It’s because we are able to spread out and use the whole field without running into one of our teammates. Also,we know where eachother are and are able to pass to them.”

The team has developed several pre-game rituals designed to loosen the players up. They admit to being pretty superstitious. This fall, Liz Rosenburg always taps each player’s sticks.

Team bonding has always been a priority of the Bethel-based club and the current group is no exception. After every varsity game, the player’s assemble for a powwow session.

“We all go around in the circle,”Mills said. “We each say one good thing we do and one thing we need to work on. It good because usually everyone gives a compliment to somebody else, it’s a very positive atmosphere. Everyone has input on what we need to work on.”