DeLand, Fla. — Stetson (4-9-0, 1-3-0) came up short in a defensive battle Thursday night at the Athletic Training Center, falling 1-0 to North Florida (5-6-2, 3-1-0).
The Hatters generated early momentum, with
Kelly Gende firing two shots in the opening minutes, including one on target that forced a save from UNF goalkeeper Chrissa Avery. Stetson continued to press with chances from
Sophia Baldwin and multiple corner kicks, but the Ospreys' defense held firm.
In goal,
Mackenzie Caprez came up with a key stop in the 21st minute to deny Allie Fekany and help keep the match scoreless at halftime.
North Florida found the breakthrough in the 65th minute when Chandler Browning scored off assists from Isabella Pontieri and Fekany. Stetson battled to respond, highlighted by a dangerous attempt from
Katharina Marx that was turned away by Avery. The Hatters earned several late corners but were unable to convert, as the Ospreys held on for the narrow win.
Caprez went the full 90 minutes, making one save on nine shots faced. Gende led the attack with two shots, including one on goal, while Marx added another shot on target. Baldwin also contributed a first-half attempt for the Hatters.
Stetson will look to bounce back on Sunday when they host Jacksonville at 1 p.m. at the ATC.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
