Loretto, Pa - For the first time since 2012, Saint Francis field hockey is competing in the Northeast Conference.  On Friday, the NEC released its annual Preseason Coaches' Poll.  The Red Flash are predicted to finish 5^th, while Rider nabbed to top spot.

Last September, the NEC reinstated field hockey as a championship sport for the 2019-20 academic year.  Saint Francis opted out of last season due to the Covid-19 pandemic, so head coach Maria Bettiana Ceretta is excited to see her team return to competition.
 
"While the team took each setback they faced last year with tenacity and resilience, you can just tell that they missed playing and competing so much," said Betta.  "Their energy and passion for their sport and their team are palpable and infectious."
 
Ceretta is beginning her fifth season in Loretto.  She led the Red Flash to a victory in its final game in the A-10 back in 2019.  Ceretta will lean on some players from that season, but she's also excited about the newcomers that will see action at DeGol Field this season.
 
"From top to bottom, we have a group of girls who are willing to work incredibly hard to make their teammates better," said Ceretta.  "With solid young players like Ella Maillie (our 2020 rookie of the year), Olivia Muffitt, and Julia Breneman coming off of great rookie seasons, a strong junior class who continues to improve every day, and seniors showing great leadership. We have great depth and talent on our squad with anyone able to make a big impact."  
 
The team is excited for the challenge the NEC will bring, but there is some familiarity. The Red Flash played many NEC teams in non-conference games in recent years. 
 
Saint Francis begins conference play on October 1 against Wagner.  The season opener is set for August 27, as the Red Flash plays host to Holy Cross.
 
 
NEC Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. Rider (5)
2. Fairfield (3)
3. Wagner
4. LIU
5. Saint Francis U
6. Sacred Heart
7. Bryant
8. Merrimack