When Ella Ciesielski first set foot on a field hockey pitch at Burlington Central High School, little did she know it would mark the beginning of a remarkable journey. Choosing to leave behind her rep soccer career, she donned a set of goalie pads, setting the stage for her current role as a goalie for the U18 Women’s Youth National Team. Recently returning from Scotland and Wales, Ciesielski achieved a significant victory against a highly experienced opponent, showcasing her talent and determination.
Rising to the Challenge in Europe
Reflecting on her experience, Ciesielski expressed awe at the level of competition in Europe. She noted, “Teams in Europe are crazy, they’re on another level. Field hockey is huge over there, so they have incredible facilities and great training. We were amazed we could beat them.” This victory underscores not only her individual skill but also the teamwork and resilience of the Canadian team.
The journey to victory included stops in London, Scotland, and Wales, where the team played a total of five games, securing a notable win amidst challenging matchups. Ciesielski shared insights into the team dynamics, revealing that they rotated goalies at halftime, a testament to their collaborative spirit and adaptability on the field.
Team Spirit and International Success
Despite facing formidable opponents and navigating a rigorous schedule, the Canadian team maintained a positive outlook and strong camaraderie. Ciesielski highlighted the team’s unity, stating, “We spent a lot of time as a team just visiting the cities, getting to know one another. We were so happy after our win, had a great dinner as a team, there wasn’t one person without a smile on their face.”
Her role as a goalie required specialized training, including weight training, which she embraced to prepare for international competition. Transitioning from team workouts to individual sessions, Ciesielski demonstrated her dedication to honing her skills and excelling on the field.
Looking ahead, Ciesielski plans to take a year off from school to coach the Burlington Central field hockey team while aspiring to continue playing at the collegiate level and represent Team Canada on a larger stage. Her ambition and passion for the sport serve as inspiration for aspiring athletes, showcasing the potential for success through hard work and determination.
