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Field Hockey Freshman Spotlight: Olivia Sahaydak
7/16/2018 3:41:00 PM | Field Hockey
DURHAM, N.C. – Head coach Pam Bustin and the Duke field hockey program will welcome six student-athletes for the 2018 campaign. Forward Olivia Sahaydak joins the Blue Devils from Liberty High School in Bethlehem, Pa.
Sahaydak wrapped up her prep career as Liberty's all-time goals (91) and assists (42) leader. She established the school's single-season scoring record with 67 tallies and received the Athlete of the Year and Dennis Schantzenbach Field Hockey Officials awards during her senior campaign. For her performances in her final year, Sahaydak also garnered second team all-region recognition from the National Field Hockey Coaches Association.
“Duke's attacking style of play is the perfect environment for Olivia's game to shine,” Bustin says.
A member of USA Field Hockey's U-19 and U-17 indoor national teams, Sahaydak has also excelled on the national level with her club program, WC Eagles.
“Duke is ready for Olivia's work ethic and internal drive to help her team achieve a championship,” Bustin says. “When Olivia competes, she is on a mission to score and win. We are thrilled to have her energy and skill on our roster and look forward to helping her expand her awareness and continue to develop her already elite level of skill.”
Sahaydak joins five other incoming Blue Devils in the 2018 freshman class.
Why did you choose Duke?
Olivia Sahaydak: Duke stood out to me because of the way it combines outstanding athletics with unbeatable academics. Duke's ability to support and prepare student-athletes for success sets it apart from other schools and gives me the confidence to go outside of my comfort zone and push myself to be the best I can possibly be in all aspect of my college career.
What is your favorite field hockey memory?
OS: Meeting some of my closest friends through years of school, club and USA Field Hockey. Also, I will always remember travelling to China in 2016 with my WC Eagles team.
What are your goals for your collegiate career?
OS: I want to be a leader and bring my best to every practice and game. I know the Duke field hockey program will constantly push me as we strive to win an ACC and a national championship.
When did you start playing field hockey?
OS: I started off as a soccer player, but decided to take up field hockey in seventh grade so I could be with my friends. I fell in love with the sport immediately and ended up joining WC Eagles a few years later in order to take my game to the next level.
Who has had the biggest impact on your life?
OS: My parents. They have sacrificed so much in order to help me pursue my dreams. I truly admire their dedication and work ethic and will forever be grateful for the advice and lessons they have taught me in order to never let down and always strive to be better.
To be a part of the Duke field hockey program is … an honor and a privilege to be a part of a family that is committed to supporting one another and working toward a common goal of excellence both on and off the field.
GoDuke.com will feature a member of the Blue Devils' 2018 freshman class every Monday over the coming weeks.
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