Being a multi-sport athlete can be challenging, but for senior Gabby Cunningham, it’s normal. Cunningham plays field hockey in the fall and rugby in the winter. 

“My favorite part is that I am always kept busy with games or practice, and I can interact with different teams each season,” Cunningham said. 

In her junior year, she was shocked to learn she made the varsity field hockey team as that year’s starting goalie. Since then, she has played in 42 games and recorded 17 shutouts in the last two seasons. 

“I was elated when I found out I made the team after only one year of playing,” Cunningham said. 

Cunningham’s favorite field hockey moments are when she and her teammates would chant “P Town” to get hyped before games. 

But just when field hockey is winding down, the grind doesn’t stop for Cunningham, who turns to rugby in the winter. 

She is always looking to improve in both sports. “She understands the game better, improved her passing and kicking skills, and has always been a ferocious runner and tackler,” rugby coach Tom Constantine said. 

While advancing in her in-game skills are important, she also uses sports to improve on her health as well. 

“My fitness has improved most since joining the rugby varsity club because I realized rugby is way more fun when you’re fit,” Cunningham said. 

She also leads her team on the field. “Her dedication and work at practice helps everyone improve, and she is really solid on the pitch,” Constantine said.

“She is very helpful as a role model and is extremely sought after for help with the new girls,” senior and rugby teammate Allison Parra said. 

After high school, Cunningham hopes to play rugby in college, although she does not know where specifically. 

“We hope that she does well in school, moves on to college, plays a little or a lot of rugby, and becomes an accomplished adult exhibiting high moral character, including courage, honesty, loyalty and fortitude,” Constantine added.