KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – In a preseason poll conducted by the Little East Conference (LEC) coaches, Keene State College’s field hockey team has been predicted to secure the second spot in the upcoming 2024 season. The Owls, who concluded last season with a 13-9 overall record and a 5-1 mark in conference play, garnered 29 points, including one first-place vote.

Southern Maine, the reigning LEC regular season and tournament champion, was favored to defend their title, earning 35 points and five first-place votes, according to a news release. Plymouth State followed closely in third place with 27 points and the remaining first-place vote.

Keene State returns to the field with a seasoned lineup, featuring standout players like All-LEC forwards Irini Stefanakos and Grace Bazin, who both tallied 45 points last season. Additional offensive power comes from sophomores Meghan Daileanes and Grace Seabury, alongside junior Kalina Piasecki. On the defensive end, fifth-year veteran Demetria Gonzalez, junior Madeline Silvester, and senior Hannah Wood will form a strong backline in front of goalie Clara Gorman, who posted a 2.15 goals-against average and four shutouts last season.

The Owls, who have claimed 14 LEC tournament titles in their history, are eager to reclaim the championship for the first time since 2019. Their campaign kicks off at home on August 30, with a matchup against Springfield College at 6:30 p.m.