The lights can never be too bright for Fairfield phenom Maddy Theriault, who is proving she is among the best soccer players in the NCAA. Earlier this year, Theriault started her senior campaign with a hat trick in a 4-1 victory against the University of Vermont, which translated into a Top Drawer Soccer Player of the Week honor, presenting her with national recognition. This award marked more than just another highlight in her already decorated career, but more importantly, it is a testament to years of hard work, dedication and growth for both Theriault and the Fairfield women’s soccer program.
“That moment meant a lot because it showed the hard work from preseason was paying off and gave me confidence right away,” Theriault said. “For Fairfield’s program, it put a spotlight on what we’re building and showed people we can compete at a national level.”
For the Stags, that spotlight is shining brighter than ever. Theriault, a senior from Palmer, Mass., has become one of the most accomplished players in program history. She already ranks among Fairfield’s all-time leaders in nearly every major offensive category, sitting in the top five in goals, points and game-winners. But the numbers only tell part of her story as her consistency, leadership and composure under pressure have made her the heart of Fairfield women’s soccer.
“I notice the milestones, but I try not to let them drive me too much,” she said. “My main focus is always on the next game and helping the team win.”
That team-first mentality has defined Theriault’s Fairfield career. It was on full display during the Stags’ historic 2024 campaign, when they captured their first MAAC Championship in over a decade with a 1-0 victory against the Quinnipiac University Bobcats. Theriault’s offense powered the team all season, and she delivered when it mattered most by scoring the game-winning goal in the championship final and earning both a unanimous MAAC Golden Boot honor (awarded to the best offensive player in the conference) as well as MVP of the tournament.
“What stands out most is how close our team was and how we trusted each other in big moments,” Theriault said. “Scoring in the final is something I’ll never forget, but the shared celebration with my teammates is what I value most.”
Theriault’s dominance on the field is nicely complemented by her poise off of it. Lessing Field has become her stage, a place where the energy of cheering fans seems to elevate the whole squad. The tight, electric atmosphere of Fairfield’s home field is truly unique.
“Lessing Field has a special energy. Our fans are loud, close to the field and make it tough for opponents to settle in,” she said. “As players, we feed off that energy, and it always gives us an extra push.”
Behind that competitive fire is a player who understands the importance of composure. Soccer is a game of momentum; one moment you’re celebrating a game-winner, the next you’re battling through missed chances or tough losses. Theriault has learned how to handle both the highs and the lows.
“I focus on staying calm, taking a breath and controlling what I can in the moment,” she said. “Reminding myself to trust the preparation helps me push through pressure situations.”
That mindset has fueled her growth into a complete player who not only finishes chances but also creates them. Her focus heading into her senior season has been on sharpening the little things, such as movement, vision and playmaking.
“I’m focused on being more clinical in finishing chances and improving my decision-making in the final third,” she said. “I also want to keep setting up my teammates so we’re harder to defend as a unit.”
Her goals align perfectly with Fairfield’s broader ambitions. The Stags are no longer satisfied with conference titles alone. They want to make their mark nationally and make noise across the entire NCAA, something Theriault and her teammates talk about openly.
“Our biggest goal is to win another MAAC championship and make a run in the NCAA tournament,” she said. “To get there, we need to stay disciplined, consistent, and trust each other every game.”
That sense of purpose and leadership is what has come to define Theriault as an athlete. Whether she’s scoring goals, assisting teammates, or setting the standard as team captain, she’s constantly shaping the program’s standard for excellence. It’s not simply about winning but rather leaving a legacy that lasts, something Theriault implements into the team culture both on and off the field daily.
“I hope people remember me as someone who gave everything for the program and left it better than when I arrived,” she said. “More than the goals or awards, I want to be known for my work ethic, leadership and the impact I had on my teammates.”
As she’s on the final lap of her journey at Fairfield, Theriault’s name is already etched among the greats who’ve worn the Stags uniform. Beyond the records and accolades she possesses, it’s her dedication to her craft, teammates and the program as a whole that stands out most. With every match she plays, every goal she scores and every moment she commands the field, she’s not just building her own legacy, she’s helping build Fairfield’s future.
