Preseason Outlook: The Lady Flames' Title Chase
Liberty University’s field hockey program has been selected as the unanimous preseason pick to win the Big East conference in 2026, a testament to the depth and talent that defined its 2025 championship run.
The Lady Flames will rely on a fast, gritty style that emphasizes tactical precision in corner play and shootouts, building on the core roster that captured the 2025 title.
Preseason accolades highlight the individual talent on the squad: Dara Semmartin earned Defensive Player of the Year, while Diane Saint Martin was named Goalkeeper of the Year, both securing spots on the Preseason All‑Big East team.
Joining them on the all‑league first team are forward Josefina Tomasi and defender/midfielder Julieta Tornati, giving Liberty the most preseason all‑league selections in the conference.
The team opens its 2026 campaign on August 28 against Maine, a matchup that will test the squad’s readiness as they fine‑tune the details that made them champions.