St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s field hockey team continued its conference dominance by clinching its fourth consecutive undefeated season and regular-season championship, this time in the United East Conference. The Seahawks, who previously earned three titles in the Atlantic East Conference, have seamlessly transitioned to the United East with an unbroken streak, finishing 5-0 in league play and securing the top seed in the United East Championship Tournament.
With an overall record of 8-10, the Seahawks sealed their No. 1 tournament seeding by shutting out Cedar Crest College 6-0 in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, October 26. The victory marked St. Mary’s 22nd consecutive conference win since 2021, extending an impressive record that dates back to their last league loss in 2019.
Upcoming United East Semifinals
St. Mary’s will host fourth-seeded Penn State Harrisburg (9-6, 2-3 UEC) in the United East semifinals on November 2 at JLR Stadium in St. Mary’s City, Maryland. The Seahawks narrowly defeated Penn State Harrisburg 1-0 in overtime during their regular-season matchup on October 12, hinting at a potentially close and intense semifinal clash.
Match Recap: SMCM vs. Cedar Crest College
The Seahawks set the tone early in the game with a strong offensive presence, outshooting Cedar Crest 28-2 and dominating penalty corners 14-0. Junior forward Brenna Ziegler opened the scoring with a goal off the team’s fourth penalty corner, taking advantage of a setup by graduate midfielder Anna Eaton and senior captain Charlotte Horn.
The second quarter saw a flurry of goals, with St. Mary’s adding three in quick succession within a four-minute window to build a 4-0 halftime lead. Ziegler netted her second of the day and provided an assist, while junior forward Emma Watkins scored twice, strengthening the team’s hold on the game.
The Seahawks continued their momentum in the third quarter with a goal from sophomore forward Elena Pasko, who scored off an assist from junior defender Jena Vanskiver. Junior midfielder Josie Shermeyer capped off the scoring, securing the 6-0 victory with a goal in the final two minutes.
Key Statistics
St. Mary’s overwhelming control of the game was evident in the stats, with a 23-0 edge in shots on goal and a 14-0 advantage in penalty corners. Shermeyer led the team with seven shots, including five on goal, while Ziegler contributed two goals and an assist, and Vanskiver added two assists to the scoreboard. Goalkeepers Sophia Kent, Caroline McDonald, and Kaley Christman combined efforts to achieve the team’s seventh shutout of the season.
Cedar Crest Defense
Cedar Crest’s Shelby Heater made a valiant effort in goal, recording 17 saves despite the relentless offensive pressure from St. Mary’s.
What’s Next?
With the No. 1 seed secured, St. Mary’s College aims to continue its postseason success in the United East semifinals against Penn State Harrisburg on November 2. A victory would position the Seahawks to capture yet another championship and continue their impressive conference-winning streak.
