Eastside’s Women’s Spotlight Athlete of the month for October was Rylie Morris (‘25), a four year varsity starter and two year captain for both the Cherry Hill High School East field hockey and girls lacrosse teams. Highlighted for her achievements on and off the field during her senior field hockey season, she and her coach, Ms. Brooke Hullings, commented on what made her stand out this season.

Morris helped guide the field hockey team to the playoffs, for the first time since 2020, this being the first time that the team has qualified for the playoffs since the format changed. It was once that every team in Group 4 made the sectional playoffs, but it has become more prestigious and difficult to get into. 

Morris was a leader in the team’s games, scoring eight goals on the season, ranked as the second top scorer for the Cougars this season. While she plays the forward position and is usually on the attack, Morris mentioned that she tries to stay focused, no matter where she is on the field, always communicating with her teammates.

“A key to playing well as a team is good communication. As a captain, I try to make sure that the whole team is communicating so we can be effective on both offense and defense,” she said.
Coach Hullings sees many traits in Morris that she sees in an all-around player. Not only does she help the team during games, but is a key presence at daily team practices. 

“Rylie always leads by example on our team, inspiring our underclassmen to be leaders, like her, in the future, helping everyone around her to stay motivated and confident, and allowing our team to be successful,” said Coach Hullings.

She also helps connect with her teammates and provides the student-perspective they need.

“There are times when our players need someone to talk to who they are more comfortable with, and Rylie is great at taking initiative to help keep everyone confident,” Hullings said.

Another quality that Hullings values about Morris is her organization and responsibility. 

“Sometimes I need to talk to her during school, and she is always willing to help out and is even sometimes one step ahead of me and already has done what I was going to ask of her. She’s always there for whatever I need and it really helps a coach when your players are as responsible as she is,” said Hullings.

Morris tries to not only be a good teammate to her peers on the team, but a good friend. Throughout the season, Morris scheduled many team-bonding activities, including a pumpkin picking event, which helped the team get closer and motivated them to work hard when they get to practice.

“I am really honored, and it is good to be recognized for all of the hard work that I have put into field hockey these past four years. As I leave this school, I hope that my leadership has made a difference to our underclassmen, who I only see improving in the next few years. The future is looking bright for the program, and I only see the future captains working harder to help the team be successful,” remarked Morris.