La Salle University's field hockey program is gearing up for the 2026 season with a new head coach and a revamped lineup. The Explorers will open their schedule at their new home venue against Villanova, a matchup that promises to rekindle a rivalry that has swung back and forth in recent years.
A Fresh Coaching Vision
Mackenzie Allessie, who was hired in January after two successful seasons at Saint Francis, brings a 24‑13 record that stands as the most dominant two‑year stretch in that program's history. Her appointment marks the first time the Explorers have a dedicated head coach in the position, and she arrives with a clear vision to elevate the team's competitiveness in the Atlantic 10.
Key Returners and New Additions
The roster retains over 76% of its scoring production from the previous campaign. Rising senior Daran DeLeo led the offense with six goals and 14 points last year, while goalkeeper Abby Boggs posted a second‑place finish in the Atlantic 10 and ranked ninth nationally in saves. Janne Zillessen, a sophomore who made an immediate defensive impact as a freshman, returns after recording seven saves in 12 games. Adding to the staff, Haley Connor, a four‑year Saint Francis athlete and former graduate assistant, joins Allessie as an assistant coach.
Rivalry Renewed
The historical matchup between La Salle and Villanova adds extra intrigue. Last season Villanova secured a 3‑0 victory, but the Explorers answered back with a 4‑3 win in 2023, with goals from four different players. Villanova entered the new season with a 2‑1 win over Delaware, scoring by Colleen Finnegan and Ava Borkowski, and finished the prior year at 5‑13 overall with a 3‑4 conference record.
With a blend of experienced returnees, a coaching staff that knows how to win, and a renewed rivalry spirit, the Explorers hope to improve on a 7‑11 record that fell just short of the Atlantic 10 playoffs last year. The upcoming game against Villanova will serve as a litmus test for how quickly the new leadership can translate preseason optimism into on‑field results.