The Varsity Field Hockey team hosted a Pride game on Friday, September 14 – the first of its kind by any GFS team. 

“It’s important for our team and the school to let people know that we are inclusive, especially toward the LGBTQ+ community. I think this is great not only for the team but for lots of people who are involved in Athletics,” said Simone Leapheart ‘26. 

Despite the 1-0 loss to Moorestown Friends, the team, coaches, parents, and friends gathered for a post-game tailgate in solidarity to support the Pride game, which the team plans to expand upon each year. 

“Having this Pride game and creating a space where we can celebrate everyone is really, really important,” said tri-captain Isla Ablin ‘24. “We play for each other – we play for our teammates – and part of that is celebrating what makes each of us unique and special. Celebrating the LGBTQ+community is important in itself, and especially if it’s important to our coach Rachel.” 

Rachel Steinman, the Varsity Head Field Hockey Coach, shared her thoughts about the Pride game prior to the game in a Q&A session, including the impetus for the game which was to demonstrate that the GFS Field Hockey program is an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. 

The game also provided a segue for Rachel to share her story, and to let the community know that she is a resource for members of the LBGTQ+ community. 

“I wasn’t sure if the team knew I identified with the community so when I told the team about my experience, which wasn’t easy, it was mostly just to explain what I went through. Surprisingly, I got emotional, which wasn’t expected, but I think that was probably one of my first coming-out experiences and telling a group of people that this is how I identify. Their reaction was really great. I also told the kids on the team who identify as LBGTQ+  that I really look up to them, to have the confidence to be out and be in the community,” said Rachel. 

“I have an office in Scattergood and my door is always open if anyone wants to come have a conversation about anything.  I often attend Middle School SAGA lunch and it’s a group of LGBTQ+ members and allies of the community. It has been such an amazing time getting to know these students on a deeper level and relate with them.”

The assistant varsity field hockey coaches, Anya Erz and Cheryl Bruttomesso, chimed in about their praise for the Pride game. 

“For me, as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, having a game like this is very important,” Anya noted. “A lot of our athletes and coaching staff have lived through some horrible experiences, and yet here they are working to make such a difference for the next group of athletes coming up and through. For me to be part of helping student-athletes who identify in the community, and teaching student-athletes who are allies on how to advocate, is moving in the right direction. I mean, in 10-15 years, I hope it’s not a conversation we need to have because it’s a norm.” 

“This team exemplifies acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community and I could not be prouder of my association and work with these young athletes. It is also a testament to Rachel and her dedication to celebrate our community,” added Cheryl, who is also a leader of the GFS LGBTQ Faculty and Staff Affinity group. 

The Field Hockey team’s Pride game is by no means a stand-alone effort in the GFS community to support the LGBTQ+ community, and it is also a powerful example of the overall GFS Athletics program’s dedication to continued DEI work. 

“It cannot be stated enough how important it is to have leaders and coaches that represent our LGBTQ+ community. We have a longstanding and intentional tradition in our recruiting of coaches and in our hiring process to find coaches and athletic administrators that reflect our student body and represent the LGBTQ+ community. These leaders will impact not only the athletes, but the entire school community. We continue to cultivate an inclusive and diverse athletic program and events like this are important to further our athletic philosophy.,” said Katie Bergstrom Mark, Director of Athletics. 

Rachel Jiang ‘25 , a midfielder for the Tigers, summed up the spirit of the day pretty perfectly. 

“I feel really good about today because Rachel, our coach, is a member of the LGBTQ+ community and it just feels really good to be supporting people while also playing something you love.”

View the Varsity Field Hockey team’s Pride game gallery.