This past Saturday's game against Virginia marked the final regular season home contest for two Blue Devil seniors - Susan Ferger and Sarah Schoffstall.
Over the past four years, these two veterans have played in a combined 140 games with the Blue Devils, leading Duke to two NCAA Tournament appearances and a run to the national quarterfinals in 2008.
Ferger, a forward from Columbus, Ohio, has been a four-year starter, amassing 27 goals, eight assists and 62 points during her time in Durham. She was an All-South honoree in 2007 and has earned NFHCA Academic All-America recognition in her career.
A defender from New Tripoli, Pa., Schoffstall ahs played in 66 games, starting 48, in her career. A two-year captain, she has helped anchor the Duke backline this season, while earning NFHCA Academic All-America and Academic All-ACC honors during her career.
Read Abby Hassinger and Samantha Nelson's comments below to learn the full impact of these two seniors.
From Abby Hassinger...
The seniors have been such an important influence on the underclassmen. Their leadership, as well as their friendship, has encouraged us to become better players as well as better individuals. Sarah and Sue are constantly going above and beyond their required duties to this team and have made this season one of the most rewarding thus far. Their determination and drive have inspired us all to work a little harder and give a little more. Sarah has been an amazing mentor and we know she will continue to do so in the future. Her passion for field hockey is contagious. Sue has been a leader both on and off the field. She is always offering us underclassmen advice about field hockey. Sue's kind spirit and bubbly personality will be greatly missed. We want to thank our seniors for all they have done for this team! They will be greatly, greatly missed.
From Samantha Nelson...
I feel extremely fortunate to have two sue great friends and teammates in Sarah and Sue. Over the past four years, I can honestly say that there are no two better people to lead this team.
Sarah has been a source of constant support for me personally and most everybody on this team. She has been our fearless leader, she pushes us to be better and always holds us to this highest standards. This is particularly inspiring because Sarah herself is so motivated; when Sarah sets out to do something, there is no doubt she will accomplish it. She is wise beyond her years, and this team has been undeniably changed by her legacy.
Sue is one of the toughest people I know. She can take anything you throw at her; she just takes it in stride and makes it look easy. Her commitment to the team these past four years has been absolutely unwavering, and in tough times that has been an invaluable quality. I admire Susan greatly because she operates with complete integrity in everything she does. She will, without a doubt, leave behind a stronger program that will remember her for her dedication and steadfastness.
