Oct. 27, 2006

Aston, Pa. - A bohemian is someone who is unconventional in appearance and behavior, that about wraps it up for practice yesterday for the Knights field hockey team. Under first year coach Sarah Madrak, the Neumann Knights (7-4 PAC, 9-9) are preparing to head to Dover, Delaware for a fifth seed playoff bid Saturday at 2:00 p.m. against #4 Wesley College (8-3 PAC 12-7). With the possibility of extending their season a few more weeks heavy on their minds, Coach Madrak wanted to have an intense practice, but keep their spirits high.

 

Bohemian day originated from Madrak's own playing experience in high school and continued during her stay at Neumann. After her graduation the tradition faded but it was one of the first things she brought back to the table.

 

She assigned her team to come to practice yesterday in clothing that certainly was not conventional for practice. The Knights rounded up a few choice items from local thrift stores along with some pieces from their own wardrobe and headed to practice Thursday afternoon. Some were dressed for Sunday dinner, others for a night out on the town. Some looked like high school art teacher, while Madrak was all in with outfitted head to toe in a chicken suit.

 

"They looked forward to this and asked about it all season. It's a great way to deal with the stress associated with this time of year. Besides, I got to wear a chicken suit," jokes Madrak.

 

The Neumann Knights opened their season with a 3-2 win over former PAC rival Villa Julie College and then went on a four game losing streak before defeating PAC competitor Arcadia 2-0 on September 19, 2006.

 

Neumann went on a three game winning streak mid-season which included two consecutive overtime shootouts, the first at home against Philadelphia University and the second against Gwynedd Mercy College.

 

The Knights will look to extend their season through the PAC Championships which start this weekend and will run through Saturday, November 3, 2006. All games will be hosted by the top seed opponents.

 

For more information call the Office of Sports Information at 610-558-5639.