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North Andover Scarlet Knights Field Hockey '07

Coach's Corner: Dianne Freiermuth

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Dianne Freiermuth, File Photo

Thursday, November, 15 By Alan Siegel
Staff writer

Dianne Freiermuth is without a doubt one of the most successful coaches in North Andover High history.

In 15 seasons at the helm of the school's field hockey program, she's compiled a 147-85-66 record, including a 22-1 mark this year. She also led the Scarlet Knights to two North sectional titles.

Freiermuth will certainly be missed in the area. After a great run, she's stepping down this month to spend more time with her family. She will, however, continue to teach history at North Andover High.

We caught up with her this week.

1. The decision must've been difficult. Has your family been supportive?
"(My husband longtime North Andover assistant basketball coach John) he's been great to lean on. He's been great. He told me to stay if it makes me happy. I just feel like I'm missing too much."

2. Boys playing field hockey has kind of been a hot-button issue around here in recent years. Can you weigh in on the topic?
"I'm a history teacher. Any kid will tell you I am a liberal at heart. It's just to me; it takes away a little bit. … If you have a boy, you play in the Division 1 tournament. But what about the Division 1 schools? Boys are bigger, stronger and faster, and even though you wear a skirt, field hockey is a very rough game. You'd hate to see someone get hurt. As a mother, I would discourage my son from playing. As a coach, I would have to accept it."

3. Your brother (Mike Foley) is an assistant football coach at UConn. Has it been interesting to see that program grow?
"That was their goal. I did get to go to one game. I'd like to go to more. The facilities are unbelievable. Everything is state of the art."

4. Do you think more people will want to attend UConn?
"It's amazing. For extra credit, I had (my students) write down four schools they want to apply to. I have 100 seniors, I would say about half of them are planning to apply to UConn."

5. Do you have a favorite sports movie?
"Probably 'Remember the Titans.'"

6. How about a favorite period of American history?
"I like the civil rights movement."

For more on Freiermuth, check out an upcoming story in The Eagle-Tribune.

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