Field hockey fans have much to look forward to as the 2024 season kicks off with Hartwick College aiming for their third consecutive Empire 8 Championship. The season begins on August 30, with league play starting on September 20. Excitingly, SUNY Brockport and SUNY Geneseo have joined the conference, expanding the field hockey membership to 10 programs.
The top six teams will advance to the Empire 8 Championship Tournament, with first-round action on November 4, semifinals on November 7, and the championship game on November 10. The Empire 8 Champion will secure an automatic berth into the 2024 NCAA Division III Field Hockey Championship. Fans can catch all the action throughout the season on the Empire 8 Network.
### Players to Watch
The 2024 season brings a host of talented players to the field hockey scene. Kirstin Billings from Keuka, Ella Buchanan from SUNY Brockport, Jaia Caron from Russell Sage, Katrina Clare from SUNY Geneseo, Lydia Coombs from Nazareth, Caitlin Ehlenfield from Elmira, Jace Hunzinger from Houghton, Ashley Luppens from Hartwick, Mary Kate McPhee from St. John Fisher, and Mackenzie Mix from Utica are just a few standout athletes to keep an eye on this season.
### Team Capsules
#### St. John Fisher
St. John Fisher, the 2023 regular-season titleholder, will be looking to secure their fourth E8 title. With a strong lineup of former All-Empire 8 selections, including Selena Emery, Emma Cooper, Audrey Grieb, Molly Fisher, and Mary Kate McPhee, the Cardinals are poised for success under the guidance of Head Coach Lauren Scorza.
#### Hartwick
Hartwick aims to continue their winning streak as they pursue their third consecutive Empire 8 Championship. With a solid core of returning players, including Ashley Luppens, Makenzie Kensel, Ashley Tricario, Kiara Dolan, and Sami Shortino, the Hawks are determined to maintain their dominance on the field.
#### Houghton
Houghton, with key players like Jace Hunzinger, Deborah Cross, and Bekah Davie leading the charge, is set to build on their success from the previous season. Head Coach Hannah Ogden has a talented group of returners and newcomers ready to make an impact on the field.
#### Utica
Utica, led by Alyssa Pisano, Mackenzie Mix, Madison Ranalli, and Hannah Young, is gearing up for another strong season. With a mix of experienced players and newcomers, the Pioneers are poised to make a statement in the Empire 8 Conference.
#### Russell Sage
Russell Sage, under the guidance of new head coach Carissa Warren, is looking to continue their upward trajectory. With Alyssa Fitzgerald and Jaia Caron leading the charge, the Gators are ready to compete at a high level in the conference.
#### Keuka
Keuka, with Kirstin Billings and Jordan Nichols at the helm, is determined to make a mark in the Empire 8 Conference. With a mix of seasoned players and newcomers, the Wolves are ready to showcase their talent on the field.
#### Nazareth
Nazareth, under the leadership of first-year head coach Kelsey Devine, is aiming for a strong showing in the upcoming season. With a roster of returning starters, including Lydia Coombs and Audra Mieczkowski, the Golden Flyers are prepared to compete at a high level.
#### Elmira
Elmira, led by Caitlin Ehlenfield, Jazmine Knox, Jessica Yesensky, and Madison Fleming, is focused on making a postseason push. With a group of promising newcomers joining the team, the Soaring Eagles are eager to showcase their potential on the field.
#### SUNY Brockport
SUNY Brockport, in their first season in the Empire 8, brings a talented lineup to the field. With players like Ella Buchanan, Emmalee Moore, Paige Thowe, and Quinn Guy leading the charge, the Golden Eagles are ready to make an impact in the conference.
#### SUNY Geneseo
SUNY Geneseo, making their Empire 8 debut, is set to continue their winning tradition under the guidance of Head Coach Margaret McConnell Shaffer. With a roster of experienced players, including Katrina Clare, Olivia Hernick, and Grace Olczak, the Knights are poised for success in the conference.
### Final Thoughts
As the 2024 field hockey season unfolds, fans can expect thrilling matchups, fierce competition, and standout performances from the talented athletes in the Empire 8 Conference. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, each team is poised to make their mark on the field and compete for the coveted Empire 8 Championship. Stay tuned for an action-packed season filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments on the field hockey pitch.