Great Valley senior Eva Nemeth, holding the midfield position with finesse, might not rack up the flashy numbers akin to a forward, where goal counts dazzle the spectators and trophy hunters alike. However, her role as a center midfielder goes beyond mere statistics, acting as the crucial link in the symphony of field hockey, harmonizing the team’s movement from defense to attack and vice versa. Midfielders like Nemeth are indeed the engines propelling their teams to success.
Recognition has been swift to find Nemeth, adorned with accolades such as the Pennsylvania High School Field Hockey Coaches Association’s First Team All-State and a spot on the National Field Hockey Coaches Association All-Scholastic Team. The latest jewel in her crown came in the form of the National High School Coaches Association (NHSCA) National Field Hockey Athlete of the Year award.
Joining an elite club, Nemeth becomes the fifth player from Pennsylvania to clinch this prestigious honor, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. Reflecting on her journey, her appreciation for the less celebrated midfield role remains steadfast. For Nemeth, the allure of her position lies in its complexity, relishing the intricate web of connections she weaves across the field.
“To have the NHSCA recognize me as a midfielder has been great,” acknowledges Nemeth, whose season’s tally boasts 19 goals and 10 assists. “My sister Nadia, who is a forward, received lots of credit these past few years (including honors as The Daily Local News Player of the Year in 2022), and rightfully so. She scored over half the amount of the entire team’s goals this past season, including her 100th career goal!”
Shown above: Great Valley coach Brenda Haley, left, Eva Nemeth, and Great Valley Athletic Director Mike Semar.
“My favorite part of playing my position is my high level of involvement with the entire team,” said Nemeth. “I get to assist forwards in goals by providing passes, and I also get to initiate the attack on outlets with the defense. Being the center midfielder allows me to be the connector among all the positions on the field, whether that be the left and right side of the field or the defense and the offense.”
Beyond the turf, Nemeth’s dedication extends to the classroom, where she excels alongside her twin sister, Nadia. Both are bound for Northwestern University, where Eva plans to pursue Pre-Med/Biology while continuing her field hockey journey.
“Eva is an excellent example of what this award stands for,” said Eric Hess, Executive Director of the NHSCA. “She has excelled as much in the classroom as she has on the field. We congratulate Eva on an outstanding high school career and wish her success at Northwestern University.”
