The Fairfield University field hockey team enters the 2025 Northeast Conference Championship with momentum, focus and home-field advantage on its side. After finishing the regular season 13-5 overall and a perfect 9-0 in conference play, the Stags earned the No. 1 seed and the right to host this year’s tournament at University Field. Fairfield will open play in the semifinals on Thursday, Nov. 6, at 11 a.m. against Rider University, with the winner advancing to Saturday’s championship game at noon.
This season has been defined by structure, trust and a new energy under first-year head coach Laura Gebhart, a former U.S. National Team member and four-time All-American at Penn State. Gebhart’s arrival brought a reset to the program, giving every player a clean slate and the chance to redefine Fairfield’s identity.
Senior defender Pilar Mengotti, one of the anchors of Fairfield’s back line, explained that the Stags’ defensive success stems from an aggressive and organized mindset. “I think our main focus in defense, which allows us to have such strong statistics for goals against, is our emphasis on defending proactively outside the circle and applying pressure early,” Mengotti said. “From the back and defensive line, we’re very mindful and intentional with our structure when pressuring the ball or building the attack, and we always have a plan in mind to be set for the counterattack.”
That discipline has allowed Fairfield to push forward confidently, knowing its defense can recover and reset quickly. Mengotti added that communication and cohesion have been just as important as tactics. “It’s been incredible to see new faces stepping into key roles this season,” she said. “Trust and cohesion are built long before game day. When things get tight late in games, it’s not about individual skill; it’s about clarity, trust and the ability to work as one.”
With Gebhart’s guidance, that trust has become the defining feature of the 2025 Stags. “We all started the season with our new coaching staff from scratch,” Mengotti said. “None of us had a head start, which allowed us to build and create our values and work ethic from the ground up. What we’ve built this season goes beyond tactics. It’s a culture grounded in attention to detail, relentless effort and genuine connection on and off the field.”
On the attacking end, senior forward Alex Senior pointed to the team’s growing chemistry and depth as keys to their success. “From the beginning of the season to now, our forward line has become more and more connected, which makes it easier to find each other,” she said. “We’ve focused all season on getting outcomes in the circle, whether it’s a corner, a shot or a goal. We have so many offensive threats throughout our team that it’s hard for opponents to key in on one specific person.”
That depth has made Fairfield one of the most versatile offensive units in the NEC, and the group’s consistency across all four quarters has helped them close out close games. “We put a huge emphasis on playing all 60 minutes no matter what the score is,” Senior said. “We never let up. We keep pushing for each other and stay connected throughout all four quarters.”
For senior goalkeeper Payton Rahn, the chance to compete for a title on Fairfield’s home field adds an emotional element to the weekend. “Having the ability to host the NEC Championship is something that I have always dreamed of being able to do,” Rahn said. “I am honored that I can experience this in my last year of eligibility, and I am really looking forward to playing on our home field. Having the energy and fans in our favor will be a big momentum shift for us. I highly encourage everyone reading this to come out to the game. We’d all greatly appreciate the support and energy you bring.”
Fairfield’s semifinal opponent, Rider University, presents a tough test. The Broncs earned their spot in the tournament with a dramatic 4-3 overtime win over Wagner on Oct. 31 and entered the postseason 8-9 overall and 5-4 in conference play. Led by senior forward Valeria Perales, who scored twice in the overtime victory, Rider brings postseason experience and resilience to Fairfield. The Broncs were picked third in the NEC preseason coaches’ poll and have a history of performing well in tight games, making them a dangerous underdog with nothing to lose.
Still, the Stags’ balanced attack, structured defense and chemistry give them confidence heading into Thursday’s matchup. With nine players contributing goals this season and five earning All-NEC honors, Fairfield’s depth will again be a major factor. The Stags will look to control possession early, dictate pace and continue their disciplined defensive play that has defined their success all fall.
As tournament play begins, Fairfield’s goals remain simple. The Stags aim to stay composed, play connected and keep improving with every quarter. From Mengotti’s leadership in the back to Senior’s presence up front and Rahn’s experience in goal, this is a team built for the postseason.
The stage is set, the home crowd will be loud and the Stags are ready to chase another NEC title on their own turf.
