When defining the term "most valuable player," most people equate value with statistical numbers. When looking at Taylor Coons' 2012 season, the senior doesn't sport gaudy numbers, however, it's not her role to do so. The two sport captain has value that can't be measured just by statistical means, but just talk to her coaches and they will tell you just how important she is to the team's success.
During field hockey season, the mid-fielder was one of the Hornet's key contributors in their 10-5-5 season. Her 4 goals, 2 assists and 10 points won't knock you off your feet, however, her play-making ability is what put her in a class of her own. Even without huge numbers, her ability to contribute on both the offensive and defensive ends didn't go unnoticed by Cape Ann League opponents, as she was named a 2011 CAL All-Star.
When asked about her senior leader, coach Andrea Slaven spoke highly of Coons' work ethic.
"Taylor is tenacious, aggressive and motivated," Slaven said. "She is always willing to work for the better of the team."
Coons' obviously made an impression on Division 2 St. Anselm College, who signed her to play field hockey in the fall of 2012.
In lacrosse, she chipped in with 7 goals while anchoring a stout defensive unit that helped propel Manchester Essex to a 11-7 record and an appearance in the Division 3 North Quarter Finals.
With co-captain Melissa Moore injured for the year, Coons' leadership proved to be invaluable. Coach Sarach Holch knows just how fortunate she was with Coons on her side.
"She was the heart and soul of the team," Holch said. "With Melissa injured, Taylor was the only captain on the field and she rose to the occasion of being a leader. She got the girls going during timeouts and she was a little spark plug when I needed her to be."
Holch further honored her efforts by naming her the Manchester Essex girl's lacrosse Most Improved Player Award in 2011 and the Coaches Award in 2012.
St. Anselm College is very fortunate to be adding a player of Coons' caliber in the fall. She is a hard worker, a natural born leader and an excellent teammate. When looking beyond the numbers, anyone that has coached, played or watched Coons knows just how valuable she really is.
