Muhlenberg, Pa (Oct. 10, 2010) – The Alvernia University field hockey team donated their time and knowledge of the game of field hockey to the Muhlenberg Area Field Hockey Association. The entire team was able to experience what it is like to be the person that uses the whistle rather than the player that has to listen to the one with the whistle. Each member of the team was able to be an official in the multiple games that were played during the tournament.

This opportunity offered each member of the Alvernia field hockey team an opportunity to gain a different perspective of the game of field hockey and see what officials deal with from game to game. The service project gave each player a better understanding the importance of officials in regards to making sure the playing field remains safe and under control while being able to call a fair game at the same time.

Junior Mary VanKirk commented on her experience saying, “Refereeing the youth league tournament showed me how important correct placement and sufficient spacing on the field is to the game of field hockey. The younger players bunch up and it makes the game chaotic and less skilled. Being in the officials position made me realize that officials cannot always see every little foul and made me appreciate their job.”