Neumann Field Hockey Soars Above Expectations 

For years, Neumann field hockey has struggled.

With losing records and few playoff appearances, success has been hard to come by. 

The key words there: “has been.” 

This season, Neumann field hockey is off to a hot start, already surpassing their highest win total since 2019. 

And while skills on the field are important, this team proves there is more to the game than just what happens during matches. 

“Our new coaches have truly stepped in to change our program for the better,” said senior Kortney Kaelin. 

“They are teaching us to work through the challenges we are facing on the field and working to grow each individual person into a future leader off the field when we all step into our future careers,” Kaelin continued. 

An all-new coaching staff has brought a fresh team culture, but culture doesn’t change on its own — it takes the team to buy in for it to truly take hold. 

“The biggest change from past years is our heart for one another and our dedication,” said senior Caley Gee. “In the past, we sometimes felt separated, but this year we’ve grown a lot closer, and it has helped us tremendously. We’re constantly pushing each other to be better.” 

First-year head coach Dana Ott saw her new role as both a challenge and an opportunity.  

She joined the program with the goal of helping her athletes exceed their own expectations, on and off the field, and building a lasting winning culture. 

Ott credits the turnaround to the team’s full commitment. “Our players have completely bought into our team-first mentality,” she said. “They’re learning the value of hard work, being good teammates, and seeing the potential within themselves and each other.” 

“My players know that I’ll tell them the truth, whether it’s tough love or positive encouragement,” Ott added. “They’ve done an amazing job understanding when it’s time to work hard and when we can have fun.” 

With less than half the season to go and still riding the momentum of a four-game winning streak, it’s hard to believe the team will slow down anytime soon.  

Several of the Knights’ wins came in close games, highlighting the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure. 

This strong play comes at a time when the Atlantic East has been unpredictable, with many teams struggling to find their footing. 

 Manhattanville sits at 4–5, Marywood is 5–6, Gwynedd has only two wins, and Immaculata stands at 4–9. 

At 6-4, Neumann stands out, giving them every reason to feel confident as they head into inter-conference play and the playoffs. 

But the players remain grounded, knowing that challenges still remain.  

“We still have a long way to go and a lot to learn, but it’s definitely a great feeling to start the season off with a winning record!” Kaelin said. 

With this combination of talent, a new mindset, and strong leadership, the Knights are well-positioned to build on their recent success.  

Fans can expect a team that is motivated, disciplined, and ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead. 

Their dedication to each other on and off the field is what has propelled them this far, and it will likely continue to define their season. 

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