Emma Watkins, a junior at St. Mary’s College of Maryland (Frederick, Md./Linganore), has been named the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) Division III Offensive Player of the Week, marking a historic achievement for both the player and her team. Announced Wednesday morning (Oct. 23) by the NFHCA, Watkins is the first-ever Seahawk to receive this national recognition, and the first field hockey player in the United East Conference’s history to earn the prestigious weekly award.
Sponsored by Victory Sports Tours, the NFHCA Player of the Week award highlights the best performances in collegiate field hockey across the country. Watkins’ exceptional play last week propelled her to the top of the national spotlight, building on her recent recognition as United East Conference Offensive Player of the Week, a title she earned for the second time this season on Monday (Oct. 21).
Watkins led St. Mary’s College to an undefeated 3-0 week, scoring five goals over three games. The forward demonstrated consistent offensive power, matching her career-best performances twice in one week. She began with two goals, including the game-winner, in a 3-0 shutout against Wilson College on Oct. 16. Watkins continued her dominant run the following day, scoring two more goals in a 7-0 rout of Meredith College. To close out the week, she added a goal in the Seahawks’ 3-0 victory over Keystone College on Oct. 19, securing the team’s position atop the United East Conference standings.
Currently, Watkins ranks among the conference’s top offensive players. She is tied for second in goals scored with nine and holds seventh place in points with 18. Her impressive 19 shots on goal have made her a pivotal player for the Seahawks’ offense this season.
The accolades for Watkins come as the Seahawks are in the midst of a strong season, holding a 7-9 overall record and remaining undefeated in the United East Conference at 4-0. The team’s performance has earned them sole possession of first place in the league standings, driven in large part by Watkins’ scoring prowess.
St. Mary’s College will return to action on Thursday, October 24, with a high-profile non-conference game against No. 6 Christopher Newport University (11-1). The match will take place at Jamie L. Roberts Stadium at 4 p.m. This game holds special significance as it will be dedicated to Morgan’s Message, an initiative focused on promoting mental health awareness among athletes.
Watkins’ recognition as the NFHCA Division III Offensive Player of the Week marks a significant milestone for both her and the St. Mary’s College field hockey program. Her consistent offensive contributions, paired with her leadership on the field, continue to play a crucial role in the Seahawks’ success this season.
