Each week, we will be highlighting a standout high school player whose performance has made an impact on the national level. These athletes are leaders both on and off the field, recognized not only for their contributions to their teams but also for their dedication to the sport of field hockey. We are proud to announce that the first player to receive this honor in 2025 is Keeli Gant, from Chantilly High School in Chantilly, Maryland.
Keeli, a sophomore captain for the Chantilly Chargers, has already made a name for herself. She was recently selected to the 2025 NFHCA High School Watch List and named the NFHCA August Offensive Player of the Month. Her numbers back it up: through the Chargers’ 7-0 start, Keeli has scored 21 goals, an average of three per game. With Chantilly tallying 35 goals total this season, Keeli has had a hand in 77% of her team’s offensive production.
Still, Keeli is quick to credit her teammates for her success. Chantilly head coach Tina Plaugher emphasizes that Keeli’s focus is always on the group as a whole: “succeeding together.” For Keeli, that means everyone giving their best effort and staying positive throughout the process.
As a captain, her biggest priority is uplifting her teammates in tough moments. She believes the hardest part of field hockey isn’t always the physical skills, but the mental side of the game. “I try to pick my teammates up when they make a mistake, because I understand how hard it is to stay confident in those moments,” Keeli explains. She adds that her teammates do the same for her, and she’s determined to give that energy back. Her leadership was on full display in an overtime battle against Lake Braddock, when the Chargers leaned on resilience and positivity to secure a dramatic overtime victory.
When asked what advice she would give younger players, Keeli says simply: “Enjoy every second of playing.” That mindset extends beyond games to practices and training sessions. Coach Plaugher notes that Keeli’s energy is consistent no matter the setting: “There is no difference between ‘Practice Keeli’ and ‘Game Keeli.’” Her philosophy is clear— if you want to be your best, you need to bring that same effort and motivation to every aspect of your life.
Looking ahead, Chantilly will face its next test on Thursday, September 11, against Oakton High School. Oakton enters the matchup ranked No. 12 in the Mid-Atlantic region, coming off a 2024 season that saw them finish as Class 6 State Runner-Ups. Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: Keeli and her Chargers squad have the skill, mindset, and passion to make this a season to remember.
