DeLAND, Fla. — Stetson closed out its 2026 season on Wednesday at the Athletic Training Center, falling to Jacksonville, 20–6.
The Hatters faced an early deficit but continued to compete throughout, finding offensive rhythm as the game progressed.
Kathleen Nichols led the way, recording her fifth hat trick of the season with three goals on three shots, continuing her strong finish to the year.
After Jacksonville built a lead in the opening quarter, Stetson broke through in the second as Nichols connected off an assist from
Heidi Cross. The Hatters continued to battle despite the margin, showing resilience on both ends of the field.
Stetson's offense found more consistency in the third quarter. Nichols added two more goals to complete her hat trick, while
Ryley Heilmann converted off a Nichols assist.
Alexa Vega also found the back of the net, finishing a well-worked possession set up by
Lexi Bird as the Hatters generated more sustained opportunities.
In the fourth,
Heidi Cross added Stetson's final goal on a free-position attempt, while the Hatters continued to fight for possession and create chances down the stretch.
Stetson Top Performers
Stetson concludes its season with a 3–13 overall record and a 3–5 mark in ASUN play, marking the program's highest conference win total since 2017.
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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.
