This week we take five with Samantha Browne, a stand-out athlete at West Milford High School, playing hockey both on the ice and the field. Samantha was a captain on the ice hockey team and counts the field hockey county victory as one of the most memorable moments with her team. She takes pride in being a Highlander and representing her school and town. Just be sure there's a sweet treat waiting for her after the game. Go to westmilfordmessenger.com for our bonus five with Samantha.
1) How did you get involved with field hockey?
I started field hockey in 8th grade when they started the travel team in West Milford. I heard about field hockey growing up and, since I played ice hockey, anything doing with the word hockey I knew I would love. So before I even saw how to play, I knew because of the name I was going to try the sport out.
2) Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration is my mom. She does so much more than anyone I have ever met. She takes care of a household of seven people, making sure our house is spotless each and every day while still working every day.
3) Who is your favorite teacher of all time and why?
I couldn't pick between Mrs. Dwyer or Mr. Bialkin. Both helped me so much while in their classes. Mrs. Dwyer is always there to put a smile on your face, and no teacher has ever caught my attention in a class like Mr. Bialkin has.
4) Share a favorite moment with your/team.
Winning counties hands down was my favorite experience. That is one think that every year we get all pumped up and never won, but this year was different. Coach White wasn't there the week before the big game because of her son. That meant the girls and I had to step up 10 times more during that week of practice to prepare ourselves.
5) Share something no one knows about you.
I am a sucker for sweets, whether its candy, cookies, cupcakes, you name it I love it!
You are a great representative of West Milford, Samantha. And while you look up to your mom, we're sure she's very proud of you too.
Do you know someone who should be featured here at Take Five? Email us at njoffice@strausnews.com and tell us who and why. Include their email address. We want to feature all the great kids who make our township special.
Bonus Five 6) What would most people be surprised to know about field hockey?
It was a hard transition to go from not wearing goggles for three years of playing the sport up to our last season having to wear goggles for protection.
7) Name three things you would bring with you if you were on a deserted island.
If I was on a deserted island I would bring my iPhone, water and food, all the things I need to survive.
8) What does being a Highlander mean to you?
Being a Highlander means a lot to me. It's caring about your school. Putting the jersey on, you are not only representing yourself but your school.
9) What do you do with your time when you are not playing field hockey?
When I am not doing a sport you can find me at the beach, snowboarding, hiking or just hanging out with my friends.
10) What is your favorite movie/book/character and why?
My favorite movie would have to be Remember Me. I just love Robert Pattinson and the movie seems to be a love story but then throws in a twist at the end.