KENNESAW, Ga. — Stetson fell just short in an 11–10 loss to Kennesaw State on Thursday at Fifth Third Stadium. The Hatters used a strong second quarter to erase an early deficit but were unable to complete the comeback.
Kennesaw State jumped out to a fast start, scoring five goals in the opening quarter to take a 5–1 lead.
Ryley Heilmann accounted for Stetson's lone goal in the period, breaking through late after several early opportunities were turned away.
The Hatters responded in the second with a six-goal surge to even the score at 7–7 heading into halftime. Heilmann led the charge with two goals in the quarter, while
Mack Meilstrup and
Claire Oldford each added scores.
Kathleen Nichols also found the net and contributed multiple assists as Stetson's offense found its rhythm.
Stetson briefly regained the lead in the third quarter behind goals from
Charlotte Castiglione and Meilstrup, but Kennesaw State answered with a run of its own to take an 11–9 advantage into the final period.
In the fourth, the Hatters tightened defensively, holding the Owls scoreless while
Maddie Eckert made several key saves to keep Stetson within striking distance.
Heidi Cross scored midway through the quarter to cut the deficit to one, but the Hatters were unable to find the equalizer in the closing minutes.
Stetson Top Performers
Stetson returns home Saturday, April 18 to host Austin Peay. Opening draw is set for 1 p.m. in DeLand.
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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.
