The 2026 Morris/Sussex field hockey season preview spans the NJAC‑Liberty, NJAC‑Independence, NJAC‑American, NJAC‑Freedom and NJAC‑Colonial divisions, gathering some of the state’s most storied programs under one competitive umbrella.
Among the favorites, Madison, led by Sarah Morano, arrives with a 20‑4 record from the previous year and a reputation for statewide dominance, while Morristown, coached by Katherine DeBiasse, enters the NJAC‑American after capturing the NJAC‑National crown last season.
Teams to Watch
Mount Olive, under Kelly Livingston, looks to build on a 5‑12‑1 campaign by emphasizing confidence and finishing power, whereas West Morris, guided by Traci Buchanan, expects fresh talent to assume prominent roles after a 18‑7 season.
Parsippany, coached by Kathryn Todero, is piecing together a roster that went 3‑15 a year ago, hoping veteran returners will translate experience into wins, while Mendham’s Michelle Hennelly focuses on refined stickwork and precise shooting after a 3‑13 record.
Mountain Lakes, directed by Jennifer Suarez, posted a balanced 14‑5‑1 mark and is now concentrating on tighter player connections, and Lenape Valley, under Emily Wisneski, aims to reload after securing the NJAC‑Colonial title but losing several graduates.
Newton, the reigning NJAC‑Freedom and NJSIAA Group 1 North champions, enter the season with Ashley Tashjian at the helm, while Vernon’s Kieran Killeen targets a 12‑6‑2 record and a push for sectional contention.
Jefferson, coached by Katelyn Cannarozzi, acknowledges a thin roster but hopes to punch above its weight, whereas North Warren’s Lisa Benzaia sees steady growth in a young squad that finished 3‑14 last year.
Strategically, every program is zeroing in on offense, defense and the often‑overlooked third‑third execution, with coaches stressing scoring opportunities and tighter defensive structures as the season unfolds.
Key returning leaders such as Avianna Zanni of Roxbury, Molly Chazen of Chatham and Lucy Delatush of Morristown are expected to anchor their teams, while newcomers like Ava Joyce from Boonton, Emma Liberato at West Morris and Gia Roque in Newton could provide the spark that reshapes the competitive balance.
With a blend of seasoned powerhouses, hungry rebuilders and promising fresh talent, the 2026 Morris/Sussex field hockey season promises a narrative rich in rivalry, development and the pursuit of championship glory.