Merion Mercy’s Victoria Arra is Main Line Girls Athlete of the Week
The junior center mid, a first team all-state field hockey selection as a sophomore, and a two-time All-AACA pick, played a key role in the Golden Bears’ PIAA District 1 2A championship this fall. A fine all-around athlete, she also plays lacrosse for Merion Mercy in the spring. Off the field, she belongs to Merion Mercy’s History Club, the Environmental Science Club, and a service club called “Kate’s Girls”— for this organization, students visit retired and infirm Sisters of Mercy on campus and enjoy some activities together.
Q: Tell us a little about your experience in the PIAA District 1 2A championship game. Can you share your most vivid memory of it with us?
A: The game was a hard fought battle by both teams. Through the intensity and emotions, we were able to stay composed and stick to our game. My most vivid memory from the game was when Alexandria scored in overtime on a corner with time expired on the clock. It was a movie ending to an unforgettable game.
Q: What aspect of your game did you work on most during the off-season? What do you consider the strongest part of your game, and what are you working on most currently?
A: During the off season I focused a lot on my shooting. The strongest part of my game is eliminating defenders in the middle and then distributing the ball up field. Right now I am working on my individual defense.
Q: Tell us a little about your start in field hockey. Have you always been a midfielder? Who have been your most important field hockey mentors, and what was the most important thing each of them taught you?
A: I started field hockey in 5th grade and began playing at Mainline Mayhem in 7th grade. I started playing forward when I was little, but then found my place at center mid and have stuck there for about 5 years now. My most important mentors are Gretta Ehret (Merion coach) and Alex McMahan (owner of Mainline Mayhem). They have both pushed me to be a better athlete, field hockey player, and person over the last couple years. Also, Gretta’s positivity and determination to fight her cancer was a huge inspiration to me this season.
Q: Briefly describe for us your pre-game preparation (physical, mental) on the day of a game.
A: Before the game I try to distract myself and not think about it at all. I like to just zone out and go into the game with a clear mind.
Q: What is your favorite course at Merion Mercy? What do you think you might want to major in at college? Is there a career field that particularly interests you at the present time?
A: My favorite class is physiology. I want to major in the health science area and become and physician’s assistant to a dermatologist.
Fun fact – Victoria Arra
Favorite team: Merion Mercy field hockey team.
(To be selected as Main Line Girls Athlete of the Week, a student-athlete must first be nominated by her coach.)
To view a gallery of the Main Line Girls Athletes of the Week from 2013 to present click here
