UPDATE: The Boulder Valley School District (BVSD) field hockey team has just secured a thrilling victory, advancing to the quarterfinals of the state playoffs after defeating Mountain Vista with a score of 1-0 on October 31, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in their second varsity season.
Senior captain Tenley Layne scored the decisive goal late in the game, showcasing her remarkable journey from a novice player to a team leader. “I’m really proud of the player I’ve become,” Layne stated, reflecting on her rapid development over the past four years. This season, she leads the Panthers with 11 goals and 12 assists.
The Panthers, who are currently 12-3-1 this season, will face the top-seeded Cherry Creek team in the quarterfinals, scheduled for Thursday afternoon. The matchup promises to be a formidable challenge, as Cherry Creek is recognized as one of the strongest teams in the state.
Layne’s success is a testament to the hard work of her fellow senior captains, Lyla Jolly and Courtney Windt, who initially campaigned for a high school field hockey program. Their relentless advocacy began in eighth grade when they sought to create opportunities for girls in the sport.
“I wanted to make it happen for us and for other girls,” Jolly said, recalling the grassroots effort that led to the program’s inception.
Since its establishment, the Panthers have steadily progressed, moving from a junior varsity team to a competitive varsity squad in just a few seasons. Last year, they finished their inaugural varsity season with a record of 8-8-2 but have since improved dramatically.
Head coach Allyse Mullen expressed her pride in the team’s achievements. “We’ve never scored this many goals before,” she noted, highlighting the players’ dedication. Currently, Layne and teammate Drew Layne rank sixth and seventh in the state for points, with 34 and 32, respectively.
The upcoming game against Cherry Creek will test the Panthers’ mettle. “It feels like a sports movie,” Jolly said, revealing the emotional stakes of their unexpected success. The team’s journey from a newly-formed program to playoff contenders is a testament to their perseverance and passion for the sport.
As the Panthers prepare for their biggest challenge yet, all eyes will be on them this Thursday. Fans and supporters are eager to see if they can pull off a stunning upset against the state powerhouse. Stay tuned for updates as the BVSD field hockey team aims for victory!
