Building Sisterhood Through the Game of Field Hockey

October 3, 2026 - 00:11

Kate Burgess remembers dodging tennis balls as her older sister, Reanne Burgess, shot them in their backyard in Holden, Massachusetts. Those early days were not about technique or trophies. They were about competition, laughter, and the bond that formed between two siblings who shared a love for sports.

That bond eventually led Kate to field hockey, where she found her place as a goalie. The position suited her. It demanded quick reflexes, courage, and the ability to stay calm when pressure mounted. More importantly, it connected her to a team that felt like family.

Looking back, Kate says the sport gave her more than athletic achievement. It taught her how to trust others, how to lead, and how to pick herself up after a tough loss. Her sister remained a constant source of support, cheering from the sidelines and offering advice after games.

For Kate, sisterhood and sports have always been intertwined. The backyard sessions with Reanne shaped her competitive spirit, while her teammates shaped her character. Together, they showed her that the strongest victories are the ones shared with people who believe in you.