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WESTON, Mass. — Bridget Delduchetto (17) has emerged as a formidable presence on the field hockey turf. Her journey began in 7th grade at Weston Middle School, allowing her to cultivate a potent combination of having a strong arm and great stick control. Paired with her game intelligence, exceptional communication skills and speed, Bridget stands out as one of the Weston High School Girls Varsity team’s most adept defenders. She prides herself on being one of the loudest on the field as that helps tremendously during plays when she needs to communicate with the other defenders to thwart the opposing team’s advances toward the goal.

These outstanding attributes culminated in Bridget’s recognition as a DCL All-Star in her junior year and her having been chosen as a co-captain during this year’s season. Further, with Bridget’s contributions, the Girls Field Hockey Team secured the DCL Small Championship title and had a good run in the State Tournament.

Congrats, Bridget!

Interview with Bridget:

What are your personal goals within your sport/athletic dreams?

Bridget Delduchetto: Every season, I strive to help my team advance further in the playoffs than the prior year.

What do you love about your sport?

Delduchetto: The team aspect. I know that applies to all team sports, but there is something truly special about our field hockey team. I would describe us as more of a family than a team.

What is your biggest challenge in your sport, and what do you do to manage this challenge?

Delduchetto: I would say mental toughness. As a defender, I tend to think about the things I should have done to prevent the other team from scoring. To manage this, I just keep playing the game, communicating with my fellow defenders and determining how we can improve our game.

What was the best advice you were ever given?

Delduchetto: Prior to our first game during my sophomore year, I was nervous starting as an underclassman and felt a lot of pressure. My coach told me, ‘If you don’t have confidence, fake it till you make it.’ That stuck with me both on and off the field.

Do you have a pregame ritual you follow?

Delduchetto: Yes, every year I choose a new hairstyle to wear for every game. This year, I’ve been wearing a braid with a pre-wrap (a type of hair band) every game. These pregame rituals serve as a constant to help calm my nerves and give me confidence.

Describe a mistake you made while competing and how you overcame it.

Delduchetto: On my team, I am the insert on corners, and, if my insert isn’t good, then the corner won’t be. To overcome this, I take my time to set up to make sure I can do a perfect insert for my team.

What do you like to do outside of your sport?

Delduchetto: I love spending time with my family and friends, listening to music and going for walks. I also work at a local cafe.

What has being a member of a team taught you?

Delduchetto: It has taught me how to be resilient, especially if you aren’t happy with how you are playing. You have to move on and focus on the next play or the next game in order to be your best for your team. Everyone has bad days, and when that happens, you need to support your teammates and let them know you are there for them and vice versa. As a captain, it has been important to me to be seen as someone my teammates can go to if they need to talk.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Delduchetto: My four years in Weston’s athletic program have been so special, and I want to thank my coaches, Mr. McGrath, Mrs. Lanata, and Melissa for everything they do for all of our teams.

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