Orono, Maine -- The University of Maine athletics department was saddened to learn of the passing of former Black Bear field hockey student athlete, Amy Zdrojesky '08.

Zdrojesky, who played for the Black Bears from 2004-07, was selected to the National Field Hockey Coaches Association Regional All-American Second Team and earned America East All-Conference First Team accolades in 2006 and 2007.

"We lost a valued member of our Black Bear family," says head coach Josette Babineau and former assistant coach and teammate of Zdrojesky, Shaunessy Saucier. Amy Z was the definition of hard work, competitiveness and commitment, but will always be remembered as the best teammate and friend. We are all so grateful and lucky to have had her in our lives and we will forever hold her in our hearts and be proud that she is a member of our Black Bear field hockey family."

"A few sentences to speak about someone so wonderful could never do her justice, but I'll try my best. Amy was a quietly fierce warrior—standing out mostly to those who paused and took a second to breathe in every ounce of good that burst through her pores. She battled this cancer like she did every other competition or challenge in her life—with elegant tenacity (who knew there was such a thing?!) Amy appreciated all life had to offer her while those that know lesser struggle complain about simple things. Still, never a bad word, nor a single complaint was heard from #21. Amy lived with appreciation for life—she was a loving, selfless teacher to kids that adored her, a dog mom, a sister, a daughter, recently a new Auntie, and a wife who perfectly mirrored her husband, Stephen—what a power duo! Amy lived with a smile on her face and determination in her heart. She was superwoman in every sense of the title. She deserved so much more than the battle she faced. Yet, Amy recognized her blessings—she held more peace, love, and gratitude in her heart and life than people will search to find in a lifetime. She truly was an Angel walking this earth and those of us who have been lucky enough to know her are a million times better for it." - Kristen O'Neill, teammate

"I was lucky enough to play along side Amy Z, #21, from PA. Just like all the rest of UMaine field hockey alum, we became family. We ate together, lifted together, roomed together, traveled across the country together, sang karaoke on long bus rides and so much more. Amy Z always showed up with the biggest smile and radiated positivity wherever she went. When she stepped onto the turf she played with heart and soul and fought this awful, unfair battle of cancer with that's same heart and soul. I will forever remember and hold onto the many memories of Amy and the bonds that are forever instilled in our hearts." - Becca Fecteau, teammate

"Amy Z was the first teammate I met in the summer of 2004 at UMaine's new student orientation. She had an infectious smile and laugh and I immediately knew I was in for an amazing four year ride alongside her, on and off the turf. Day one on the turf this girl meant business. She brought her best, day in and out, and challenged us to rise to her level. Throughout our career together, she made my job easy to get her the ball from the midfield and then she would work her magic,  often landing the ball in the back of the net. Off the turf we shared countless late nights filled with laughter. Her journey didn't stop at UMaine, but instead she continued to positively impact so many lives as an educator, family member and friend, despite her long personal battle with cancer.  In recent days she continued to be an inspiration to all and relentlessly exuberated strength, love and faith. Amy will forever hold a special place in our hearts and be lovingly missed by her Black Bear family." - Erin Reusch Bickford

-UMaine-