Oak Park and River Forest senior DeeDee Golla has played a major role in this year’s field hockey team. From the start of her field hockey journey in 8th grade to a second-place finish at the state tournament–and a commitment to play field hockey at Johns Hopkins University in the fall of 2024–Golla is a prime example of a well-balanced student-athlete.

Golla was first exposed to the sport by her older sister, Katie, who played at Wellesley College last year. “She introduced me to the sport, and taught me how to play, and has some of the best work ethic I have ever seen,” said Golla, attributing much of her success in the sport to her sister.

Golla has had a massive impact on not only the program’s success but also on her teammates as individuals and competitors.

Senior captain and teammate Eva O’Keefe said, “I have learned how important patience is from DeeDee. She is able to keep her composure during difficult and frustrating situations, which ultimately leads to successful outcomes.”

Golla has also had a significant impact on her coach, Kristin Wirtz, over the past four years that they have been working together. Golla “changed my perspective of the game. She reminds me to just enjoy the game and that it doesn’t always have to be super serious,” Wirtz said.

Golla’s competitive nature and bright personality are what make her a great player and an even better teammate. “She has found a really good balance between seriousness and humor,” said Wirtz.

Unfortunately, Golla was injured and could not play in around half of the games this season, according to Wirtz. But that has not stopped her ambition to take the sport to the next level.

Golla plans to attend her dream school, Johns Hopkins University, where she will continue her field hockey career. Last season, Hopkins finished second in the nation out of 160 Division 3 schools across the country and is currently ranked third with a 10-1 record.

“With such a good record, a competitive team environment would be expected, but everyone on the team is super kind and welcoming,” said Golla. With the goal to major in STEM, Golla truly thinks Hopkins is the best fit for her, and she is excited to begin the next chapter of her life there.

“DeeDee has been a huge part of our success over the last four years, so I am sad to lose her but excited to watch her play next year and see what she can accomplish in the future,” said Wirtz.