The Maine Field Hockey Association (MFHA) has named Ayla Lagasse, a standout forward and midfielder from Biddeford High School, as one of two finalists for the prestigious 2024 Miss Maine Field Hockey award. Selected by high school varsity coaches from across Maine, the honor celebrates not only athletic skill but also sportsmanship and dedication to the sport. The winner will be announced at the MFHA All-State Banquet, held on Dec. 8, at the Augusta Civic Center.

“It’s very awesome. I’m very thankful,” Ayla Lagasse said of being named a finalist for the award, given to Maine’s top senior field hockey player.

Lagasse’s impressive achievements on the field have earned her statewide and regional recognition, according to a Biddeford School Department press release. In the 2024 season alone, she scored 14 goals and set up 27 assists, bringing her career totals to 56 goals and 65 assists. A four-year varsity starter and two-year team captain, Lagasse holds Biddeford’s records for the most assists in a season, most career assists, and most assists in a game. Her leadership, skill, and consistency on the field have earned her numerous accolades, including:

• Max Field Hockey Regional Player to Watch (2023, 2024) and All-Region 2nd Team (2023);

• National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) High School Watchlist (2022, 2023, 2024) and All-Region Team (2023);

• Maine Field Hockey Association All-State Selection (2022, 2023); and,

• SMAA All-Conference 1st Team (2023); 2nd Team (2022); Rookie Team (2021).

Lagasse’s accomplishments reflect her dedication to the sport and her invaluable contributions to the Biddeford High School field hockey program, the release states. As she prepares to continue her athletic career at Saint Anselm College next year, Lagasse remains focused on both her academic and athletic goals.

“We are incredibly proud of Ayla and all she has achieved during her time at Biddeford,” said Caitlin Tremberth, Biddeford High School’s Field Hockey coach. “Her hard work, leadership, and love for the game have left a lasting legacy on our field hockey program and our Biddeford athletic community, and we are thrilled to see her accomplishments recognized on this statewide level.”

Ayla Lagasse joins Lucy Johnson, a midfielder from Cheverus High School, as the other finalist for the 2024 Miss Maine Field Hockey award. Both athletes exemplify excellence in the sport and serve as role models for aspiring players across Maine, according to the release.