Even with summer winding down, Linda Koehler wasn’t excited to have her Saturday calendar unexpectedly cleared. Pelham High School’s field hockey coach preferred following through with her original plans.

The Pythons were set to take part in a four-team jamboree on Saturday, Aug. 22, but the games were canceled due to inclement weather, a disappointment for a coach who wanted to provide game action to a relatively inexperienced squad.

Nine seniors graduated from last year’s Pelham team that finished the 2008 Class I regular season at .500, 6-6-2.

“When I look at the team, numbers-wise I do have returning players,” said the mentor. “Some have some really strong time in at varsity, and some have a spattering of varsity playing time. It is going to be about transitioning (the untested players), and that’s our major focus right now.”

One aspect of the team that should make the transition easier is the relationship between the varsity and JV programs. Several players suit up for both teams, and each squad runs the same system, making it easier for athletes playing varsity for the first time.

Returning players Kally Riddinger and Stephanie Winn, who serve as team captains, lead the group.

Riddinger is the Pythons’ top defender, while Winn is a midfielder. But Koehler said the pair brings more to the team than fine contributions on the field.

“You name it, they do it,” said Koehler. “They’re smart players with a strong varsity background, and they are hardworking, good role models in addition to being solid at their positions. Those are the key elements you look for.”

Kelsie Lynde is one player Koehler expects to improve throughout the season; the junior’s athleticism should help fuel the Pelham offense from midfield to attack.

For Pelham to excel on offense, Koehler said forwards Molly Smith and Keri Foley need to meet their potential; both possess strength in the offensive zone.

The coach also said the 2009 unit is an easy-going bunch with good chemistry. As the season proceeds, Koehler said she hopes to see her inexperienced players develop a better grasp of the game and make some necessary mental adjustments.

“It’s a matter of them realizing that they are more talented players than what they thought, but it’s hard to build that confidence,” said Koehler. “I think they’re much better than what they are giving themselves credit for.”