By Jamaria Walton
Wingate Triangle contributing writer
Sisters Audra and Miranda Szymborski are making their mark on Wingate’s winning women’s field hockey team this fall.
Freshman Audra is the Bulldogs’ star goalie while senior Miranda leads the group of defenders in front of her. The Szymborskis have been instrumental in leading the biggest sports turnaround on campus this year. A team that won only four games last season is now 10-2 and fighting for a spot atop the South Atlantic Conference with five games to go.
A big reason for that is a defense that gave up only eight goals in its first 11
games, becoming one of the hardest in the country to score against. From family vacations to practices, the Szymborski sisters have been close all their lives, but this season has made them draw even closer given the chance to play their first and last college season together.
“Having the chance to play with her during her senior year is something really special for me,” Audra said of Miranda. “I learn something new from her every day.”
Growing up in Furlong, Pa., and being big fans of the Philadelphia Eagles, the sisters have had a love for sports since they were kids. They grew up playing field hockey together but going different routes. Miranda is a strategic and smart defensive leader, while Audra is known for being a fearless and aggressive goalie.
Audra was a highly recruited freshman who didn’t waste any time making an impact at Wingate. Over the 12 games she has started this season, she has racked up 58 saves with five shutouts and was named NCAA Division 2 National Player of the Week on Oct. 9.
It isn’t easy for a freshman to step into such a high-pressure position but
Audra has done it with confidence. Her teammates have described her as “a
force to reckoned with.” Her communication with the defense, especially
with Miranda, has been one of the keys to growing the team’s confidence as
the season has gone on.
Miranda played her first three seasons at NCAA Division 3 DeSales
University in Center Valley, Pa., but decided to spend her last year of
eligibility at Wingate to be with her sister. The two are treasuring every
moment of the memories they’re creating.
“It’s bittersweet for me,” said Miranda, who was SAC Defensive Player of the Week on Oct. 15. “I’m so excited to be playing with Audra, but I also know this is my last season. I want to make the most of every moment.” With Miranda’s experience guiding the defense and Audra’s ability to make crucial saves, the chemistry between the sisters is very evident during Wingate games. The two have been playing together for so long that they don’t really talk much on the field—they already know what the other will do.
As the regular season nears its end, the Szymborski sisters are focused on one winning the SAC championship and, who knows, maybe even the national championship.
“We have a chance to do something special this year,” Audra said. “We’re working hard every day, and I think we’ve got the talent and the chemistry to win in the conference tournament. Playing alongside Miranda makes it even more meaningful.”
Wingate Triangle 