To the Editor:

Congratulations to the Guilderland Lady Dutch field hockey team for making it to the New York State championship for the first time in school history! We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the wonderful community behind this successful and historic season. Many thanks to:

— The team’s dedicated family members, friends, and fans for their endless love and support;

— Varsity Coach Jennifer Sykes for being an incredible role model and fostering a culture of caring, respect, hard work, and always rising above;

— Assistant Coach Laura Page, JV Coach Jessalyn Sweeney, and Modified Coach Sean McConaghy for sharing their expertise and time;

— Athletic Director David Austin, Administrative Assistant Jen Krasney, and Health and Wellness Coordinator Rachel Shatney for their work behind the scenes;

— The bus drivers for providing safe and reliable transportation;

— The local businesses who generously donated to the raffle fundraiser;

— The hard-working leaders of the Booster Club for providing special items and experiences to the players;

— Mike Koff of The Altamont Enterprise for capturing priceless action photos that we will treasure for a lifetime; and

— The Guilderland Police Department and Guilderland Center Fire Department for leading the bus to Guilderland High School with sirens and lights after the championship game.

Finally, a very special thanks to the talented group of young women who played hard, lifted each other up, and always gave 110 percent. You are destined for success both on and off the field. Cherish the memories and always carry the spirit of the Lady Dutch in your hearts!

Nancy and Ed Durivage

Field hockey parents

Guilderland

Editor’s note: See related photos.