As the fall season kicks off, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is gearing up for its final year in the Atlantic 10 conference before transitioning to the Mid-American Conference (MAC) next academic year. The Minutemen and Minutewomen are ready to make their mark in their farewell campaign through the A-10, with the women’s soccer, men’s soccer, and field hockey teams all looking to build on their successful 2023 seasons.
The men’s soccer team is led by standout forward Alec Hughes, who returns for his final year after an impressive performance in 2023. Hughes, a Third Team All-American, was the team’s top goal scorer with 15 goals and was named the Atlantic 10 Offensive Player of the Year. With key players like midfielders Mike Willis and Andrew Ortiz also returning, the Minutemen are poised for another strong season under head coach Fran O’Leary.
On the defensive end, players like Aiden Kelly, Alex Brown, and Brad Moccio bring experience and stability to the backline. The team will need to fill the void left by goalkeeper Matt Zambetti, but seniors Alex Geczy and Lance McGrane are ready to step up and protect the net. With a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talent, UMass is looking to improve upon their 7-6-6 record from last season and make a deep run in the A-10 tournament.
The women’s soccer team also boasts a strong lineup, with leading goal scorer Bella Recinos returning for her senior year. Recinos, along with senior forward Ashley Lamond and a host of other talented players, provide a potent offensive threat for the Minutewomen. Defensively, the team is anchored by senior Juliana Ryan and graduate defender Hannah Peric, who started the majority of games last season and will look to continue their solid play in 2024.
In goal, redshirt senior Bella Mendoza is back to command the box after a stellar 2023 campaign. Mendoza’s impressive stats, including 77 saves and eight shutouts, make her a key player for UMass as they aim to improve upon their 9-5-4 record from last season. With a strong core of returning players and a hunger for postseason success, the Minutewomen are primed for a successful final year in the A-10.
The field hockey team, while not as experienced as the soccer programs, is still a force to be reckoned with in the A-10. Led by senior Dempsey Campbell, who led the team in goals last season, the Minutewomen have a potent offensive attack. With players like Hannah De Gast and Claire Danahy also returning, the team has the potential to light up the scoreboard once again.
Defensively, junior goalie Myrte van Herwijnen is back to anchor the backline after a solid 2023 season. Van Herwijnen’s impressive stats, including a 1.37 goals against average, make her a reliable presence in goal for UMass. With a mix of returning veterans and new faces stepping into larger roles, the Minutewomen are looking to build upon their 13-7 record from last season and make a run in the A-10 tournament.
Overall, the UMass athletic programs are gearing up for an exciting and competitive final year in the Atlantic 10 conference. With talented players, experienced coaches, and a hunger for success, the Minutemen and Minutewomen are ready to leave their mark before embarking on a new chapter in the MAC. Fans can expect thrilling matchups and fierce competition as these teams strive for excellence in their farewell season.