Things are looking up for Ella Fowler and an improving HHS field hockey team. PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO

Hopkinton High School field hockey coach Ally Valencia had a clear goal for her team as the 2025 season got underway: make it past the state quarterfinals.

The Hillers were one of the final eight teams in Division 2 last year before their season came to an end with a loss to Canton. This year, Hopkinton is in Division 1, but the team has 16 returning varsity players, and Valencia said they are ready to build on last year’s deep tournament run.

“I think we are hungry to take that next step,” the coach said. “This program has had consistent growth, and I think this is our year to get to the league title and make it far in the Division 1 tournament.”

The Hillers are anchored by captains Abby Burke, Mary Finnegan and Ella Fowler. All three of the captains have the ability to generate offense, Valencia said.

“I think we are going to see a lot of goals from them and a lot of offensive firepower,” she said.

In the midfield, Taylor Interrante and Avery Quebec are skilled two-way players.

“They can really help make plays in the midfield and flip the field for us, and they do a good job of blocking scoring threats and being defensive anchors as well,” Valencia said.

Senior Emmy Foster returns as a starter in the midfield. Hopkinton also will rely heavily on goalkeeper Riley Curtin.

“She is a brick wall back there for us,” Valencia said. “She came up big in some games, and I have seen huge improvement from her in the offseason. I am really excited to have her back in net.”

Valencia said the Hillers are “hungry for a Tri-Valley League” title after coming close over the past couple of years. She expects two-time defending league champion Norwood along with Westwood and Medfield to be among the biggest tests on the schedule.

“Those games are always circled on my calendar,” Valencia said.

With so many experienced players on the field, Valencia said her team’s intelligence and experience in pressure moments is something that is going to help throughout the season. The Hillers also come into the season with significant depth, which is something they have not always had in recent years, even as they consistently put top-end talent on the field.

“This year, I can get people in if injuries occur or if someone is having an off game,” Valencia said. “We have a lot of people on our roster who can contribute.”