The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) has released its 2026 Watchlist, a roster of 204 student‑athletes who have distinguished themselves over the past two seasons. The list serves as an early indicator of talent that could shape the next wave of collegiate competition.
Ava Michael’s Offensive Surge
Ava Michael paced Alvernia’s attack with 18 goals and five assists during the 2025 campaign. Her impact included five game‑winning goals and five multi‑goal performances, earning her a First Team All‑Region selection, the MAC Commonwealth Offensive Player of the Year award, and a First Team All‑MAC Commonwealth honor.
Kelsy McClintock’s Balanced Impact
Kelsy McClintock started every game in 2025 and contributed eight goals with five assists, finishing third on the team with 21 points. She recorded two game‑winning goals and eight multi‑point games, a consistency that helped her secure a Second Team All‑MAC Commonwealth nod.
Sarah Schaffer’s Defensive Anchor
Defensively, Sarah Schaffer anchored the team with a league‑leading 1,179 minutes played. Her presence helped lower Alvernia’s goals‑against average to 1.79 and limited opponents to a .140 shot percentage, placing the defense fourth in the MAC Commonwealth. For these efforts she earned a Second Team All‑MAC Commonwealth defender designation.
The trio’s recognitions underscore a season of growth for Alvernia, a program that improved both offensively and defensively while building depth across the roster.
Looking Toward the 2026 Season
Alvernia’s 2026 schedule opens on September 1 with an away game at Gettysburg, kicking off at 7:00 p.m. The Watchlist acknowledgment adds momentum as the team prepares for the new campaign, hoping to translate individual accolades into collective success.