Scouting report for 2014 field hockey district tournament (poll)

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Here is a preview for the field hockey district tournament which involves local teams.

Gates Mills District

Click here to see brackets with local teams

Contenders

Shaker HeightsLed by goal-scoring machine Kasidy Anderson, Shaker Heights was built to succeed this year with several talented upperclassmen. The Raiders have not dropped a game to a local team in 2014 and are the favorites to make it out of the district. Keep an eye on goaltender Audrey Anderle. If she's on her game, Shaker Heights is tough to beat.

Hathaway BrownAlthough it's a young team, Hathaway Brown has developed nicely under coach Brooke Edwards. The Blazers played Shaker Heights tough and remain the Raiders' biggest threat in the district. Riley Whitmyer is a terrific goaltender and will keep her team in any game.

HudsonAlways a contender, Hudson again boasts a talented team. Hannah Collins and Jordan Nenni control the pace in the field, while Jackie Kisthardt locks it down at goaltender. A potential game on Oct. 17 against Magnificat is must-see.

MagnificatIt's all about balance for Magnificat, which boasts Bridget Smith and Mary Kate Durkin. The key for Magnificat will be scoring early and then playing defensive to hold the lead. A trip to the district title game is not farfetched.

Players to watch

Kasidy Anderson, Shaker Heights - With 35 goals in her team's first 14 games, Anderson is as prolific a goal scorer as you will find. In most games, it's not if Anderson will score but when. In her final postseason, expect this senior to go out with a bang.

Riley Whitmyer, Hathaway Brown - With just 12 goals allowed in the team's first 14 games, Whitmyer is as tough as they come to get a goal against. She saved 103 shots during that stretch and is the anchor for the Blazers.

Olivia Hamilton, Shaker Heights - With 13 assists in her team's first 14 games, Hamilton knows how to set up a score. She's consistent and gives this team even more experience.

Hannah Collins, Hudson - As a senior, Collins doesn't just offer strong play but also plenty of experience. She's part of a balanced attack and could be a factor in the postseason.

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Contact high school sports reporter David Cassilo by email ( dcassilo@cleveland.com ) or Twitter ( @dcassilo ). Or log in and leave a message in the comments section below.

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