LYNCHBURG, Va. – The University of Lynchburg field hockey team came up short in its pursuit of a 24th conference title, falling 2-0 to Washington and Lee in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference Championship on Saturday afternoon at Shellenberger Field.
The top-seeded Hornets (14-6) saw their 10th consecutive ODAC Championship appearance end in defeat against the second-seeded Generals (14-4). Despite the setback, Lynchburg's postseason hopes remain alive as the Hornets await Sunday's NCAA Division III Field Hockey Selection Show to determine whether they will receive an at-large bid to the national tournament.
Lynchburg established an early offensive presence, earning five penalty corners in the opening quarter. Taylor Secrist and Allie Freeman each generated opportunities, while Khanyisile Mzizi put an attempt on goal that was turned away by Washington and Lee goalkeeper Helenka Chodakiewicz.
On the defensive end, Shay Schoones helped keep the contest scoreless with a pair of first-quarter saves, sending the teams into the second frame deadlocked at zero.
Washington and Lee broke through in the second quarter when Zoe Dolfis found the back of the cage off an assist from Madeline Lancione, giving the Generals a 1-0 advantage.
The Hornets continued searching for an equalizer, generating consecutive penalty corners and a shot on goal from Freeman. However, the Generals extended their lead before halftime when Margaret Cover finished another feed from Lancione to make it 2-0.
Facing a two-goal deficit, Lynchburg emerged from halftime looking to regain momentum. The Hornets held Washington and Lee without a shot in the third quarter while generating four attempts and three penalty corners of their own.
Freeman continued to lead the offensive charge, putting another attempt on frame and generating additional opportunities, but the Generals' defensive unit held firm to preserve the advantage entering the final period.
Lynchburg continued to battle in the fourth quarter, earning another penalty corner and an opportunity from Sofia Boon, but was unable to find the breakthrough needed to mount a comeback.
The Hornets finished the afternoon with a 11-6 advantage in penalty corners, while both teams recorded 10 shots. Freeman led Lynchburg with five attempts, including two on goal, while Schoones concluded the contest with four saves.
Despite the loss, Lynchburg's 2026 campaign has featured another impressive run of conference success. The Hornets completed an undefeated 8-0 ODAC regular season, secured the top seed in the conference tournament and advanced to their 10th consecutive championship game.
Lynchburg will now await its postseason fate, with the NCAA Division III Field Hockey Selection Show scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 8, at 9 p.m. The Hornets will look to secure an at-large bid and extend their season into the NCAA Tournament.
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