Undefeated field hockey is ready to topple their tough conference

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The field hockey team in a game last season. Photo / Multimedia Editor Dyone Payne

The Profs once again displayed a dazzling performance. This time against a struggling Stevenson University team on Wednesday night.

With a score of 7-2, the Profs outperformed the Mustangs in every aspect of the game.

An ingredient to the team’s recent success has been the consisted play from first-year player, Alyssa Magliaro.  The freshman forward contributed a goal and an assist apiece in Wednesday’s victory, compiling eight total points for the season. 

Along with her impressive numbers, Magliaro has racked up approximately 190 minutes of play, leading all freshmen.  

“I strive to be the best player I can be.  I push myself to be better every single day, in every single practice and every game,” Magliaro said. “I stand my own ground.”

Head coach Michelle Andre and sophomore forward Krystyna Hovell have been instrumental in her early success.

“She is the best coach I have ever had.  She helps us individually and creates the bond between the team.” Magliaro said.

Hovell has been a role model in the field for her as well.  

“Krystyna teaches me new things about the forward position, which allows me to improve my game,” Magliaro said. 

With such an enthusiastic team that exemplifies intensity day in and day out, consisting of a dynamic defense, creative midfield, an explosive offense, and perhaps the best goalkeeper in the nation, according to Andre, the Profs are more prepared than they have ever been, especially with New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) play approaching.

Most importantly, the team’s confidence level has elevated through every single game.  

“The team is feeling confident, and they should be,” Andre said.  “What they are doing on the field is very special.” 

As conference play nears, growing pains will without a doubt be expected for the second ranked team in the nations, especially in such a competitive division. 

With a number five ranked The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), number ten Montclair State University and a Kean team right on the edge of the national rankings, Rowan will encounter challenges and adversity in one of the toughest conferences in the country.

However, with their current determined mindset, the team believes they can cap off their season with a conference and national title.

“NJAC play is always tougher, it’s one of the strongest conferences out there,” Andre said.  “Everyone is pretty much good. The way we play our conference schedule, every game prepares us for the next one.  So, we are ready.”

Even the freshman knows what this team can do.

“I do expect to win because I have high expectations for me and the team.  I want to go far and we will do that,” Magliaro said. 

With a perfect season record of 6-0, amassing a total of 29 goals, allowing a mere nine and a week remaining of non-conference play, the Profs, so far, have solidified their stance as the number two ranked team in the nation. 

However, it is certain that the team is not satisfied, gazing at the top spot, claimed by Middlebury College.

With that being said, it is time to seriously start considering the Brown and Gold as heavy favorites to win the nation’s top prize and bring back championship glory to our own, lovely school.

The Profs close their five-game home stand hosting Alvernia University this Wednesday night at 7 p.m. before traveling to Virginia to face the University of Lynchburg on Saturday afternoon.

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