On September 10, 2025, the St. Mary’s College of Maryland field hockey team delivered a commanding 8-0 victory over Goucher College in a non-conference matchup in Baltimore, marking their first road win of the season. The Seahawks, now 4-0, showcased their offensive prowess with eight goals from six different players, led by senior forwards Elena Pasko and Emma Watkins, each scoring twice. Senior forward Brenna Ziegler made history, becoming the program’s all-time points leader with 113 points, surpassing Lauriann Parker’s 111-point record set in 2013. For Southern Maryland residents, this performance underscores the Seahawks’ dominance and the pride they bring to St. Mary’s County as they continue their unbeaten streak.

The game began with St. Mary’s asserting control early. Watkins opened the scoring just 1:53 into the first quarter, capitalizing on an early opportunity. Senior midfielder Sofia Lopez doubled the lead at 13:53, giving the Seahawks a 2-0 edge. Despite outshooting Goucher 10-0 in the second period, St. Mary’s was held scoreless thanks to five saves by Goucher goalkeeper Katie Bloom, keeping the score at 2-0 at halftime. The Seahawks erupted in the third quarter, with Pasko scoring twice at 36:32 and 40:22, followed by Ziegler’s record-breaking goal at 42:38, pushing the lead to 5-0. In the fourth, Watkins struck again at 46:49, followed by first-year Kristina Wujciak’s first career goal at 47:52 and senior midfielder Josie Shermeyer’s final tally at 51:26.

Credit: Chuck Steenburgh / St. Mary's College of Maryland

St. Mary’s overwhelmed Goucher statistically, recording a season-high 44 shots to Goucher’s four, including a 26-0 advantage in shots on goal. The Seahawks also led 18-3 in penalty corners, showcasing their control in offensive territory. Goalkeepers Sophia Kent and Caroline McDonald, both from Maryland, combined for the team’s second shutout of the season, facing no shots on goal. Goucher’s Bloom made 15 saves through three periods, with Mimi Taff adding three in relief, but the Gophers (1-3) couldn’t counter St. Mary’s relentless attack. The win improved St. Mary’s all-time record against Goucher to 16-8, reinforcing their historical edge.

Ziegler’s milestone resonates deeply in Southern Maryland, where St. Mary’s College is a cornerstone of community pride. Her 113 points, accumulated over four seasons, highlight her consistency and leadership for a program that has grown into a regional powerhouse. The Seahawks’ 4-0 start builds on their 14-5 record from 2024, when they reached the United East Conference semifinals. Pasko and Watkins, both Maryland natives, exemplify the local talent driving the team’s success, with Pasko from New Freedom and Watkins from Frederick. Their contributions, alongside first-year Wujciak’s debut goal, signal a blend of veteran and emerging talent.

The game’s one-sided nature underscores St. Mary’s preparation under head coach Molly McGuckin, now in her fifth season. Her staff has cultivated a high-octane offense, averaging 5.5 goals per game, tops in the United East Conference. The Seahawks’ 44 shots set a season high, surpassing their previous best of 38 against Eastern Mennonite on September 1. Their 18 penalty corners reflect strategic aggression, a hallmark of McGuckin’s system, which emphasizes possession and pressure. This approach will be tested next as St. Mary’s faces No. 2 Salisbury University on September 13 at Sea Gull Stadium, a critical matchup against a 3-1 team ranked among the nation’s elite.


David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East...

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