2026 Field Hockey Season Preview
The University of Maine field hockey team is set to begin its 2026 campaign with two home contests that will capture the attention of fans across the Northeast. On Friday, August 28, the Black Bears will host #8 Liberty, followed by a showdown with #15 UMass on Sunday, August 30, at the iconic Maine Field Hockey Complex.
Returning Stars Lead the Attack
Returning scorers Eloise Penty and Saylor Kuefler headline the attack, with Penty leading the squad in goals and Kuefler topping the assists chart.
Goalkeeping Stability
Senior goalkeeper Jayde Temby will guard the net after posting a 2‑1 record and a 1.58 goals‑against average last year, providing a steady backbone for a defense that ranked third in the conference for goals against.
Opponent Profiles
Liberty arrives as the defending Big East champions with a 17‑3 record and an undefeated conference slate, driven by Dara Semmartin, the league leader in assists per game, and Diane Saint Martin, who earned Goalkeeper of the Year honors. UMass, ranked #15 in the NFHCA preseason poll, will rely on Emily Barrett and Fiene Jenniskens, the team’s top two scorers from the previous season.
Broadcast and Fan Experience
The games will be streamed live on AmericaEast.TV, and fans attending the matches will receive a complimentary season poster, adding extra incentive for the campus community to turn out in force.
Looking Back at 2025
Maine advanced to the America East Semifinals a year ago, defeating #4 UMass Lowell 4‑3 before falling to #1 Vermont in a shootout. This season the Black Bears return four of their top five scorers and welcome four freshmen along with a graduate transfer, positioning them to build on last year’s momentum.