The upcoming 2024 Rutgers field hockey season is set to kick off this Sunday with a match against Vermont, marking the first meeting between the two teams in 11 years. The Scarlet Knights, ranked No. 9, will be looking to start their season on a high note as they host the Catamounts at 12 pm, with the game streaming on B1G+. However, what makes this matchup even more special is the deeper connection that Rutgers head coach Meredith Civico has with the Vermont program.
Civico’s coaching journey began at Vermont, where she started as a volunteer coach after her collegiate playing career ended. Despite just graduating from college, Civico had prior coaching experience from her time at Maryland, where she had to take a redshirt season in 2004 due to an injury. During that time, she stayed involved with the program in a player-coach role, which laid the foundation for her coaching career. Her time at Vermont coincided with the program’s success, as she helped them achieve back-to-back double-digit victory seasons, a significant improvement from their previous record.
Following her stint at Vermont, Civico went on to serve as an assistant coach at Towson before joining the Rutgers coaching staff. In 2012, she was named the head coach of the Scarlet Knights at just 28 years old, marking the beginning of a successful coaching career. Since then, Civico has led Rutgers to 127 wins, three NCAA Tournaments, and one Big Ten title, showcasing her coaching prowess and dedication to the program.
The upcoming matchup between Rutgers and Vermont will be the fourth meeting between the two teams, with Rutgers leading the all-time series 2-1. The Scarlet Knights will be looking to build on their recent success, with a winning percentage of 66.67% since 2018, including three NCAA Tournaments and a Big Ten Tournament win in 2021. With a strong returning roster that includes key players like Puck Winter, Guillermina Causarano, Paulina Niklaus, Ava Cickavage, and Sophia Howard, Rutgers is poised for another successful season.
On the other hand, Vermont will be looking to make a statement this season under the guidance of head coach Kate Pfeifer, who enters her 11th season at the helm. The Catamounts were picked fifth in the preseason America East poll, with midfielders Sophia Drees and Sophia Lefranc named Preseason All-Conference Selections. With a mix of experienced players and newcomers, Vermont will be a formidable opponent for Rutgers in their season opener.
As the Scarlet Knights prepare to take on Vermont, a win would not only mark a successful start to the season but also add to their impressive record under Coach Civico. With a strong history of success and a talented roster, Rutgers is poised to make a statement in the 2024 field hockey season. The matchup against Vermont will be a test of their skills and determination as they aim to continue their winning ways.