It was a fast break with no Misericordia defenders in sight, and two King’s players charging toward her. Grace Riker waited to make a move, and timed it perfectly, diving to kick away a low shot.

Riker, a senior goalkeeper, has been reliable for the Cougars over her career, and with 105 saves this season, has finished third all-time in MU history with 333.

“I try not to watch anything but the ball when a player is coming toward me,” Riker said. “The offensive player can throw shoulder fakes or hip fakes. It’s important to key on the ball.”

In the past four seasons, Riker appeared in 47 games for the Blue and Gold, recording 6 shutouts along the way.

Riker’s leadership translates to positive relationships with her teammates, both on and off the field.

“I try to be vocal on the field, because as a goalie, I can see everything,” Riker said. “I direct players where to be and communicate with my defense. Girls know they can talk to me about field hockey or anything for that matter.”

Riker came to MU after setting the Section 3 shutouts record at Mt. Markham High School in New York with 41, and has done her best to keep the Cougars competitive.

“It’s been tough at times this year,” Riker said. “But, we’ve been in a lot of close games against some very good competition.”

The Cougars finished the season with a record of 4-15, losing to Montclair State and Haverton who were both ranked tenth in the nation at the time, and losing to fifth ranked Franklin and Marshall.

The Cougars also lost three overtime contests.

“We had a young team with ten freshman,” Riker said. “I saw the improvement over the course of the season and we did come together. I’m proud of the team.”

Riker can be found on campus belting the National Anthem for Cougars sporting events similar to how she would belt instructions to her Cougars teammates, and with the season over, Riker still returns to practice with the team.

“I want to help the girls any way that I can, and it’s a good way to stay in shape” Riker said. “I just love the game.”

Dom Dellos Reporter
Photo Courtesy of MU Athletics