The University of Richmond’s field hockey program announced a historic start to the 2026 campaign as the team dismantled Queens University 12‑0 in its season opener on August 28. The victory, played on the campus of Queens in Charlotte, North Carolina, marked the highest single‑game goal total in Richmond’s history, surpassing previous records set earlier in the program’s timeline.
A Record‑Breaking Offensive Outburst
Richmond’s attack was relentless from the first whistle, generating a flurry of scoring chances that left Queens’ defense scrambling. The team amassed 36 points during the contest, a tally that places them ninth overall in NCAA Division I single‑game point history. The offensive onslaught was anchored by senior forward Olivia Eusanio, who recorded a hat trick, and junior midfielder Clara Larripa, whose fifth career collegiate hat trick underscored her leadership.
Freshman contributors also made immediate impacts. Malena Magnano and Elen Nicholls each found the back of the net for the first time in their Richmond careers, while Abril Peroni erupted for four consecutive goals, including two penalty corners, to claim her inaugural collegiate points. Assists from Maura Seeger and Eliana DeGennaro marked their own first‑point milestones, highlighting the depth of talent across the roster.
Defensive Mastery and Upcoming Challenge
While the offense captured headlines, Richmond’s defensive unit was equally impressive, holding Queens without a single penalty corner and limiting the opposition to just 15 shots on goal. The shutout performance reflects a disciplined back line that will be crucial as the team prepares for its next test against Duke on August 30. Head coach Amanda Cimillo praised the collective effort, noting that the blend of veteran poise and freshman enthusiasm bodes well for the remainder of the season.
The 12‑0 victory not only sets a new standard for the program but also signals Richmond’s intent to compete at the upper echelon of NCAA Division I field hockey. With a blend of seasoned leaders and emerging talent, the squad looks poised to carry this momentum into a demanding schedule, beginning with the highly anticipated matchup against Duke.