By Olivia Trasser
Correspondent
The College’s field hockey team faced off against No. 2-ranked Salisbury in a game that went beyond the scoreboard. Saturday’s regular-season finale was the Lions’ annual Play4TheCure game, where players, coaches and fans came together to support the fight against cancer. Both teams showcased their competitive drive, but Salisbury ultimately emerged with a 1-0 victory.
Lions players set aside their usual navy socks for game days, instead wearing pink socks in tribute to those affected by breast cancer.
For over a decade, the College’s Play4TheCure game has embraced the mission of using sports to give back, channeling their competitive drive into a cause that transcends athletics.
Despite the single-goal setback, the College performed admirably, outshooting Salisbury 10-9 and putting constant pressure on their opponent.
Salisbury, who conquered seven nationally ranked teams this season, scored the only goal just 3 minutes, 55 seconds into the game. Regan Nacrelli netted the goal, tallying it as her fourth of the season.
The Lions responded with determination, especially during the first half. Senior nursing major Rayhanah Ahmed led the Lions’ efforts with four shots on goal, while teammates Claire Engebreth and Isabel Maher both contributed two attempts. This helped the College keep pressure on Salisbury’s defense throughout the match.
Salisbury’s goalie Abbey McIlvain blocked the Lions' best attempts, recording four saves and securing the shutout.
The Lions defense stiffened, with junior goalkeeper Brigitte Racey making five key saves to take her save tally to 58 on the season, keeping the Lions within striking distance.
Salisbury capitalized on penalty corners, claiming a 10-5 advantage in that area, but the Lions’ resilience was evident up until the final whistle.
As the College heads into the NJAC tournament hoping to hoist up a trophy at the end of it, they’ll look to bring the same tough mentality Sharon Pfluger teaches the team to bring to the field every game.
Entering her 39th season as head coach, Pfluger has been recognized as the winningest coach in all of Division III sports. The victory over William Paterson on Saturday, Oct. 12 earned Pfluger the record for the most wins in Division III history.
Coach Pfluger and the Lions look to pursue an NJAC championship title, a key step toward advancing in the NCAA Tournament.
While the game against Salisbury may have ended in defeat, the Lions walked off the field with heads held high, knowing their efforts extended far beyond the final score.
Saturday’s matchup meant more than a win or loss on the scoreboard; it was about coming together as a community to support the impact of playing for a cure.
