Bishop Ireton officials have tapped Longwood University alum Erin Sixsmith Simons to skipper the Cardinals field hockey squad in 2011. 

Simons played forward throughout her college and high school career, which began at West Potomac High School. Simons also is bringing along her mother and former coach, Betty Sixsmith, as a member of her staff.     

The team is expected to have a short season this year as they move to the new Witter Field complex near the Cambridge Road private school. They will play a full Washington Catholic Athletic Conference schedule in the fall of 2012.

A meeting for all girls interested in the sport is set for August 12 at 6 p.m. Tryouts begin August 15. Their season schedule has not been finalized, officials said.