The Boston College Eagles will open the ACC/Big Ten Challenge this Friday at 6 p.m. on their home field, taking on the No. 13 Maryland Terrapins before facing the unanimous preseason No. 1 Northwestern Wildcats on Sunday at 2 p.m. The weekend marks a return to the tournament format that saw the Eagles split last year’s edition, securing a 2‑0 victory over Maryland but falling 2‑0 to Northwestern.
Both programs enter the 2026 season with strong credentials. Maryland, ranked No. 13 in the NFHCA Division I Coaches Poll, begins the year 2‑0 and brings back key contributors such as Josie Hollamon, a 2025 First Team All‑Big Ten honoree, and Jordyn Hollomon, the 2025 Big Ten Freshman of the Year. Northwestern, the defending NCAA champion, arrives as the top‑seeded team, led by Ashley Sessa, the 2025 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, and goalkeeper Juliana Boon, the 2025 Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Year, while Ilse Tromp, the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year, contributed the game‑winning goal in the 2025 championship.
The Challenge also serves as the 20th MS Awareness Game at Boston College, a tribute to Kathleen (Murphy) Cashman, who has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The honor underscores the program’s commitment to community and health advocacy, adding a meaningful layer to the competitive schedule. Friday’s matchup begins at 6 p.m., and Sunday’s contest starts at 2 p.m., with the Eagles’ next home games slated for September 11 against Maine at UMass Lowell and September 13 against Harvard.
Honoring a Legacy
The 20th MS Awareness Game pays tribute to Kathleen (Murphy) Cashman, whose battle with multiple sclerosis has inspired the BC community to raise awareness and support for research. By dedicating the weekend’s matches to her legacy, the program highlights the intersection of sport, compassion, and social impact, while the Eagles prepare to test their mettle against two of the nation’s elite field‑hockey programs.
Beyond the Challenge, the Eagles have upcoming home games against Maine at UMass Lowell on September 11 and Harvard on September 13, continuing a busy early‑season slate that tests their depth and resilience.