DeLand, Fla. — Stetson celebrated Senior Day in style, honoring
Heidi Cross,
Sydney Jenkins, and
Claire Oldford before powering past Austin Peay, 17–13, on Saturday at the Athletic Training Center. The Hatters erupted for 12 unanswered goals spanning the second and third quarters, highlighted by a career-high seven-goal performance from
Kathleen Nichols.
Austin Peay struck first after controlling the opening draw, but Stetson answered quickly with a free-position goal from
Luana Engel to even the score. The Governors built an early 5–2 advantage behind a balanced attack, but the Hatters began to settle in late in the first quarter.
Lexi Bird converted from the free-position and
Maya Sellinger added a goal in the final seconds to cut the deficit to 6–4 heading into the second.
Stetson seized control in the second quarter, outscoring Austin Peay 5–1 to take its first lead of the game. Nichols ignited the surge with three straight goals, showcasing her finishing ability during a pivotal stretch. Bird added another tally, while the Hatters controlled possession behind strong draw work from
Mikala Thomas to carry a 9–7 lead into halftime.
The momentum only grew out of the break. Nichols continued her standout performance in the third quarter, part of a seven-goal frame that broke the game open.
Alexa Vega and
Mack Meilstrup each contributed goals, while Stetson consistently turned draw controls into scoring opportunities. By the end of the quarter, the Hatters had built a commanding 16–8 advantage.
Austin Peay made a late push in the fourth, capitalizing on a player-up opportunity and stringing together several goals to narrow the margin. Stetson responded with a key goal from Cross to halt the run and maintain control down the stretch, securing the 17–13 victory.
Stetson Top Performers
Stetson returns to action on Wednesday, April 22, hosting Jacksonville in DeLand. Opening draw is set for 6 p.m.
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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.
