Shannon KeoughAfter a rough field hockey season of injuries and losses, Caitlin Donahue has come out on top. With an overall record of 11-11 and a two-game loss in the conference, junior goalkeeper Donahue was titled the 2009 NCAA Statistical Champion for Save Percentage.
Among Donahue were her competitors from institutions including Eastern University, Neumann, Gwynedd-Mercy and Delaware Valley College.
Although Donahue received this wonderful award, the road to her success wasn’t easy. During the first game of the season against Rowan University, Donahue tore her medial collateral ligament when she tried to block a shot.
“When I was in excruciating pain and could barely move, I knew something bad happened to my knee. The doctor had one look at my knee and knew I tore my MCL and that I’d be out of the season indefinitely. I was really upset because I thought my season was over and all of my hard work during the summer and preseason was for nothing,” Donahue said.
“Caitlin is a very good player but I don’t think she realizes how good she really is; she has always been so modest about her skills and talents. After she tore her MCL during her first game I was really sad for her. She has always been so devoted to her team and to the sport of field hockey but to be honest, I thought her season was over,” Pete Donahue, Cailtin’s father, said.
Donahue missed nine consecutive games due to her torn ligament and was welcomed back by opposing team, Immaculata University. During this game Donahue had nine saves for her sixth career shut-out.
“I was very surprised when I heard that Caitlin won the award. I didn’t know she was in the running for it and the season had been over for awhile. I am very proud that she worked this hard when she had so many obstacles to overcome,” Pete Donahue said.
“I was so happy for her because it was so well deserved after her having a rough time with her injury at the beginning of the season. She really earned this award,” Allie Rodolico, junior defender, said.
Along with this award Donahue also earned the titles of Regions Top Defensive Player of the Week, Womens Field Hockey.com Honor Roll Accolade, Cabrini’s Student-Athlete of the Week and CSAC Player of the Week.
“When I first heard that I won 2009’s NCAA Statistical Champion, I didn’t think it was a big deal. But, after I realized what an accomplishment it was I felt honored to be recognized for my hard work,” Donahue said. “I’m hoping next season will be just as good as this year, we have a great returning team and we can’t wait to bring home another title.”
