Davis, Crusaders ready to open Patriot League play on Monday

It hasn’t always been easy road for Haley Davis. Prior to her time at Holy Cross, the senior from Gambrills, Md. endured multiple knee injuries that should have ended her career.

“I think my knee injuries have definitely given me experience overcoming obstacles on and off the field,” said Davis. “I’ve been able to develop such a strong foundation of resilience that I think translates over to my college field hockey career in the best ways.”

Her resilience on and off the field translated into her attitude and leadership. 

“I’m able to approach challenges with an attitude that helps me know anything is possible with a little bit of hard work,” Davis continued. “This has definitely helped me to be able to lead the team, along with the captains, with the headspace that we can tackle any challenge that comes our way with confidence and pride.”

Davis jumped right into the starting lineup during her first season, playing all six games in the COVID shortened spring season. Her sophomore year, Davis played in ten games for the Crusaders, starting two. 

By her junior year, Davis became a fixture in the backline. Starting all seventeen games, Davis recorded a nation co-leading 12 defensive saves, catapulting the team to a nation-leading 15 defensive saves. Davis also recorded her first collegiate goal, a game-winning stroke in a 1-0 win over Patriot League opponent American.

“These past few years I’ve definitely put a lot of practice in on that goal line, so I think last year's success came as a result of that work and confidence coming together on the field,” said Davis of her national statistical title. “This definitely wouldn’t have been possible without the rest of the girls on the team and all the work we’ve put in together.”

On Monday, Davis will take the field with the Crusaders against Patriot League and Turnpike Trophy opponent Boston University, a team she has only faced twice in her career.

“This year, playing against Boston University really feels like everything has come full circle for me,” said Davis of the matchup. “BU was my first game freshman year, and I was playing center back. This year, I’m back in the same position ready to compete.  One of our key focuses going forward from our previous games is coming out strong in the first seconds, especially against a great opponent like BU, and keeping that pressure on all 60 minutes.  We have an amazing and talented group of girls and when we’re all on the same page we play some beautiful hockey and it’s so fun to be a part of.”

A Psychology major and Neuroscience minor, Davis is hoping to be admitted into a PhD or Master’s program next year to pursue a career in sport psychology.  

'SADER SHORTS

• Seniors Katie Guden and Allie McDonough, sophomore Julia Carrozza, and freshman Maguire Sturgis are tied for the team-lead with four points each.
• The Terriers hold a 1-26 record all-time against the Cruaders.

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